LA Dodgers Outfielder Alex Call Criticizes Sydney Sweeney Betting Ad

The controversy centers on a campaign for Novig, a sports-prediction platform, in which the actress appears with minimal clothing. Call voiced his frustration on X, questioning how he can justify the content to his young son. He specifically called on networks including TBS, Fox, and NBC to remove the ads, characterizing them as unsuitable for what he considers a family-friendly broadcast environment.

This criticism mirrors a broader pushback against the marketing strategy. Several high-profile female athletes, including four-time Olympic swimming champion Ariarne Titmus and former UCLA gymnast Gracie Kramer, have challenged the campaign. They argue that relying on sexualized imagery undermines the efforts of women in sports to be recognized for their athletic performance rather than their appearance. While the actress has not directly addressed Call’s comments, she previously defended her involvement by pointing to the company’s leadership and sharing examples of athletes who have appeared in similar artistic, unclothed contexts in publications like ESPN’s Body Issue. Novig CEO Jack Fortinsky has defended the creative direction, maintaining that the platform supports women’s sports and that the actress was hired to deliver a brand message rather than portray an athlete.