Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has openly criticized curling as a legitimate Olympic sport during the 2026 Winter Games in Milan. While she acknowledges the excitement around skiing, hockey, and figure skating, Cunningham expressed confusion and frustration about curling’s inclusion in the Olympics on her Show Me Something podcast, igniting debate around what qualifies as a sport at the Games.
“I don’t understand the curling. I don’t understand—what makes something first, a sport, and not a hobby? And second, who qualifies it as an Olympic Sport,”
Cunningham questioned, adding,
“And I’m not discrediting these athletes because I know I couldn’t do what they’re doing. But I just like, I watch some of these things, and I’m like, okay, how or like whyA?”
Criticism Extends to Los Angeles Social Scene
This week, Cunningham has voiced her sharp opinions on more than just winter sports. She also criticized the social atmosphere among women in Los Angeles, commenting on the perceived lack of genuine interaction and individuality in the city’s social settings. Speaking candidly, she described the scene as “weird” and noted the artificiality she observes despite the heavy presence of influencers online.
“So, I promise you I’m not being judgmental because I think there’s a place for legit everyone, and some people thrive in different areas. I don’t think I’m an LA girl,”
Cunningham said, adding,
“Like, at all. It’s just weird. People don’t dance. People don’t even like say, ‘Hi.’ They have no personalities. They have no personalities, and they all look the same. It’s weird. Please tell me that’s not weird. All these personalities you see on like Instagram and TikTok, all these famous influencers, I like how they found a space where they can feel like themselves and gain confidence online, but if you can’t speak to people or look people in the eye, like in person … is that not weird.”
Upcoming Free Agency Looms After Strong Season Despite Injury
After completing a solid season, Cunningham faces a significant offseason as she approaches free agency. With the WNBA’s next collective bargaining agreement in the works, fans hope to see her continue with the Indiana Fever following her vital contributions last year. She averaged 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds per game while stepping up in the absence of star teammate Caitlin Clark, despite recovering from a torn MCL.
Reflecting on the team’s dynamics, Cunningham said,
“We missed her [Clark] out on the court this year, but depending on the CBA and what’s going on hopefully we’re all together again.”
Whether she will return to Indiana remains to be seen as negotiations and free agency unfold.
Broader Implications of Cunningham’s Comments
Sophie Cunningham’s outspoken views bring attention to ongoing conversations about the evolving nature of the Olympic program and the sporting world’s culture. Her questioning of curling’s Olympic legitimacy asks the public to consider what defines a sport worthy of the global stage, while her remarks about Los Angeles culture highlight tensions around authenticity and identity in the era of social media.
As Cunningham prepares for free agency, her candidness resonates beyond basketball, placing her among athletes unafraid to challenge norms and spark debate at a time when sport and society continue to intersect in complex ways.
