Trump Backtracks After Commenting on WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham

Sophie Cunningham wants the WNBA commissioner to make bold moves. She stands firm behind her views on protecting women's sports while fans rally around her position. The controversy grows daily, with a Seattle columnist quitting over censorship issues.

President Donald Trump praised the Indiana Fever star during a Monday night rally in Youngstown, Ohio. He called her beautiful and noted that many men want to watch her play. But he quickly walked back those remarks. "You're not allowed to say that anymore, however, as a politician," Trump said. He pleaded with the crowd to let him take it back. "Anytime a politician says a woman is beautiful, that's generally the end of his political career in the modern-day politic world."

Trump then suggested Cunningham joining a team would boost attendance. "Sophie is a beautiful young woman," he stated. "You probably wouldn't mind her on the team, not to help you with points, but to help you with attendance. The attendance would be great."

Cunningham has been a fan favorite since arriving in Indianapolis. She often defended Caitlin Clark against hard fouls during games. Her popularity surged after a quote surfaced earlier this year. In it, she said biological males should not play in girls' and women's sports. "I want to protect young girls in a locker room," she told reporters. "Or young girls in sport who shouldn't have to go against biological men." She emphasized the need to shield children involved in these categories.

Her jersey is now listed as a top seller on Fanatics. It stands alone as the most popular WNBA item fans wear right now. The debate rages on, highlighting how quickly public sentiment can shift.