Sky Sports presenter Wayne Riley faced criticism after making a sexist comment during live coverage of The Open.
Popular golf commentator Wayne Riley was given a dressing down by Sky Sports bosses following a sexist remark he made during live coverage of The Open Championship. The incident comes just after Eurosport commentator Bob Ballard was removed from their coverage for a similar transgression.
Riley, known as 'Radar', was showing viewers a tour of the workout facility at Royal Troon earlier this month when he received a shoulder massage with a therapy gun. After exaggerating his enjoyment with a groan, the 61-year-old Sydney native commented, âI tell you what, if that could cook and clean Iâd marry it.â
The incident did not go unnoticed by Sky Sports. A couple of hours later, they chose to re-broadcast the clip during their highlights reel. While Sky declined to comment, sources have indicated that both Riley and the production team were contacted after the remarks were aired.
Despite no malicious intent being implied, the group was reminded of the importance of mindful language and the need to be careful with their words.
This incident follows a similar event at the Olympics where veteran commentator Bob Ballard, formerly of the BBC, was removed from Eurosport coverage after making an insensitive remark. During the coverage of the Australian quartet's gold medal win in the 4x100m freestyle relay, Ballard commented: "Well, the women just finishing up. You know what women are like⦠hanging around, doing their make-up.â Ballard has yet to address the incident publicly.
These events highlight the increasing focus on responsible language use in media, particularly concerning gender equality and sensitivity. While Riley's comment may have been intended as lighthearted, it underscores the need for broadcasters to be conscious of their words and their impact on audiences.