Olympic shot putter Raven Saunders found herself at the center of a gender identity controversy during the Paris 2024 Olympics. Saunders, who identifies as non-binary, was misgendered by BBC commentator Steve Backley during a live broadcast. Backley initially referred to Saunders as female, but his co-commentator Jazmin Sawyers quickly corrected him, emphasizing that Saunders is non-binary.
Saunders’ appearance at the event was striking, featuring a neon green and purple hairstyle, a mask, gold grills, and long fingernails adorned with Team USA colors spelling out “HULK.” Despite these eye-catching details, it was the misgendering incident that sparked significant attention on social media. Some viewers were confused and critical, questioning why Saunders was competing in the women’s event if they did not identify as female. Others praised Sawyers for promptly correcting Backley and respecting Saunders’ pronouns.
@pinknews In an awkward on-air moment, BBC Olympics commentator and former Team GB javelin thrower Steve Backley found himself corrected by his co-host after using incorrect pronouns for US shot putter Raven Saunders. US athlete Saunders, who won a silver medal during the Tokyo games, was competing in the women’s shot put qualifying round at the Stade de France on Thursday (8 August). During the event, Backley referred to Saunders, who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, as “her” multiple times. The slip-up did not go unnoticed by co-commentator Jazmin Sawyers, who stepped in to correct him. “The colorful character of Raven Saunders back. Good to see her back, sort of. Sort of see her, I mean,” Backley told BBC viewers, referencing Saunders’ distinctive mask. Sawyers replied: “Well we can’t see them very well. Raven Saunders is actually non-binary and wearing the mask there, we’re quite used to seeing them with interesting attire.” The BBC has yet to comment on the on-air gaffe. #ravensaunders #paris2024 #olympics #nonbinary #bbc
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Saunders, a Tokyo 2020 silver medalist, responded to the situation with confidence, stating, “I’m in full form. I had to remind the people, I am who I am.” Saunders explained their distinctive look as a way to stand out and inspire other athletes to express their individuality. Despite the initial misstep, Saunders advanced to the final with a throw of 18.62 meters.
The incident highlights ongoing debates around gender identity in sports, with Saunders’ participation drawing both support and criticism. As the conversation continues, it underscores the importance of respecting athletes’ identities and promoting inclusivity in competitive sports.
