Former NFL star and sports commentator Pat McAfee has apologized for using a racial slur to refer to WNBA player Caitlin Clark during an episode of his "The Pat McAfee Show." McAfee's comments drew criticism online, and he later issued a statement expressing regret for his choice of words.
Former NFL punter and sports commentator Pat McAfee has apologized for using a racial slur to refer to WNBA star Caitlin Clark during an episode of his "The Pat McAfee Show" on Monday.
McAfee was discussing Clark's recent success in the WNBA and her status as a fan favorite, particularly in her home state of Iowa. In the course of his commentary, McAfee referred to Clark as a "white b----," a comment that sparked immediate backlash on social media.
"I shouldn't have used 'white b----' as a descriptor of Caitlin Clark," McAfee wrote in a statement posted on Twitter. "No matter the context...even if we're talking about race being a reason for some of the stuff happening...I have way too much respect for her and women to put that into the universe."
McAfee said he intended his comment to be complimentary, but acknowledged that it was inappropriate and disrespectful. He also apologized directly to Clark and said he had sent her a personal message of apology.
"My intentions when saying it were complimentary just like the entire segment but, a lot of folks are saying that it certainly wasn't at all," McAfee wrote. "That's 100% on me and for that I apologize...I have sent an apology to Caitlin as well."
Clark has not publicly commented on McAfee's apology. However, she has spoken out in the past about the importance of respecting women and using appropriate language.
"I think it's important for everyone to be respectful of each other, regardless of their race, gender, or background," Clark said in an interview with ESPN last year. "We should all strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society."
McAfee's comments come at a time when the WNBA is facing increased scrutiny and criticism. Some have accused the league of not doing enough to protect its players from physical and verbal abuse.
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has pledged to take action to address these concerns. In a statement released on Monday, Engelbert said the league would "review the incident" and take appropriate disciplinary action if necessary.
"We are committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all of our players," Engelbert said. "We will not tolerate any form of abuse or harassment."
McAfee's apology has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised him for taking responsibility for his actions, while others have criticized him for not issuing an apology sooner.
McAfee has a history of making controversial comments on his show. In the past, he has been criticized for using sexist and homophobic slurs.
However, McAfee has also been praised for his willingness to address his mistakes and apologize for his offensive language. In a recent interview, McAfee said he believes it's important to be held accountable for one's actions and to learn from one's mistakes.
"I think it's important to apologize when you're in the wrong," McAfee said. "I think it's important to take ownership of your actions and to learn from your mistakes. I'm not perfect, and I'm going to make mistakes. But I'm always going to try to do better."
