WNBA star Sophie Cunningham is weighing in on the controversy surrounding Sydney Sweeney’s provocative sports betting ad, saying she doesn’t believe the actress’ decision to appear nude in the campaign was an attack on female athletes.

The Indiana Fever guard addressed the debate on her “No Hesitation” podcast after Sweeney’s ad for prediction market Novig drew criticism from some female athletes and others who argued its sexualized imagery undermined progress made by women in sports.

“Why are girls mad?” Cunningham asked. “That is literally what she does. Why is anyone mad? It is a gambling ad: men, sports, naked women. Of course, that’s going to draw attention.”

While Cunningham defended Sweeney’s freedom to participate in the campaign, she made clear that she had reservations of her own.

“Do I agree with it? Morally, I think it’s kind of weird, but each to their own,” Cunningham said. “Go do your thing, sis.”

Sophie Cunningham is confused at why people are mad at Sydney Sweeney for her revealing sports ad:

“Why are girls mad? That is literally what she does… Men, sports, naked women. Of course that’s gonna draw attention… Go do your thing sis.” https://t.co/r8V4LYWsq4

— Hater Report (@HaterReport) September 18, 2026

The ad reportedly originated in part with Sweeney herself. Novig CEO Jacob Fortinsky said during a panel discussion that the actress played a significant role in developing the campaign.

“It really was Sydney who was driving a lot of the visuals and the messaging,” Fortinsky said, adding that the company supports women’s sports and did not intend the campaign as commentary on female athletes.

Cunningham acknowledged why some women might have had a negative initial reaction to the ad, particularly after female athletes have spent years fighting to be recognized for their athletic ability rather than their appearance.

“I can understand when you first see that ad that like it could kind of deflate women, because it’s like we’ve worked so hard to get a little bit of respect around here,” she said.

But Cunningham ultimately rejected the idea that Sweeney’s campaign should be viewed as a setback for women’s sports.

“When you really think about it, it’s like, screw it, let that girl do her thing,” she said. “This has nothing to do with us.”

Cunningham said she remains encouraged by the growing visibility of strong female athletes who can serve as examples for younger girls.

“I’m really loving seeing all these girls who are powerful, strong, showing young girls what it looks like to be an athlete,” she said. “I don’t think the ad was coming for women in sports.”

Her comments add another perspective to a debate that has touched on sexuality, advertising and the way women are portrayed in a sports culture increasingly intertwined with gambling.