Axed Olympics commentator Bob Ballard breaks silence after making 'offensive' comment
The commentator was axed after making a controversial remark when commentating on the Australian women's swimming team in Paris
Olympics commentator Bob Ballard has issued an apology for his controversial comments directed at the Australian women's swimming team, which led to a wave of criticism and he was promptly axed by Eurosport.
The veteran broadcaster sparked outrage during live coverage of the women's 4x100m freestyle relay as he made dismissive remarks about the female athletes exiting the Paris Aquatic Centre after clinching gold.
The Australian quartet, comprised of Mollie O'Callaghan, Shayna Jack, Emma McKeon, and Meg Harris, outpaced their American rivals to gold by over one second.
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Commenting as the victors wrapped up, Ballard remarked on the broadcast: "Well, the women (are) just finishing up. You know what women are like... hanging around, doing their make-up," landing him in hot water for his sexist tone.
Eurosport subsequently relieved Ballard from his commentary role amid fervent backlash. Responding to the incident, Ballard released a statement on X, expressing his regret and insisting no harm was meant.
Penning his thoughts, Ballard said: "The comments I made during the Australian freestyle relay victory ceremony on Saturday have caused some offence. It was never my intention to upset or belittle anyone and, if I did, I apologise. I am a massive advocate of women's sport.
"I shall miss the Eurosport team, dearly and wish them all the best for the rest of the Olympics. No further comment will be issued. Thank you."
The controversial remarks made by Ballard during a live broadcast have led to a backlash on social media, with widespread online condemnation following the viral spread of his commentary footage. Ballard's colleague Lizzie Simmonds was also overheard during the broadcast labelling his comment as "outrageous".
Broadcasting giant Eurosport reacted promptly with a public statement acknowledging the unsuitability of Ballard's comment. In their statement, they declared: "To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect."
