Gregg Doyel Faces Criticism and Suspension for Inappropriate Behavior

Sports columnist Gregg Doyel has been suspended for two weeks and barred from covering the Indiana Fever after making a series of inappropriate comments to WNBA star Caitlin Clark.

Gregg Doyel, a sports columnist for the IndyStar, has been suspended for two weeks and will not be allowed to cover the Indiana Fever after a bizarre and unprofessional interaction with WNBA star Caitlin Clark.

The incident occurred during Clark's welcoming press conference before her WNBA debut with the Fever. Doyel approached Clark and formed a heart symbol with his hands, asking her if she liked it. Clark responded by saying she typically uses that gesture with her family after games, and Doyel replied, "Start doing it to me, and we'll get along."

Doyel's behavior raised eyebrows on social media and drew criticism from fellow journalists. Miami Herald columnist Greg Cote described Doyel's actions as "cringeworthy, sexist, creepy, and juvenile."

While Doyel later apologized, saying his actions were "clumsy and awkward," he has faced further backlash for his comments made during the same interaction. He referred to Clark as "that" and "it" while speaking to Fever head coach Christie Sides.

The IndyStar's decision to suspend Doyel and remove him from the WNBA beat has been met with mixed reactions. Some believe that the punishment is justified given the severity of the offense, while others argue that it is too harsh.

Cote, while agreeing that Doyel's actions were inappropriate, believes that the decision to ban him from covering the WNBA is excessive. He argues that Doyel's actions do not constitute a "journalistic felony" and that preventing him from reporting on the team is an overreach.

Doyel has indicated that he would be willing to resign if the Miami Herald were to impose a similar restriction on his coverage. He maintains that his misstep at the press conference should not prevent him from reporting on the WNBA.

Clark, for her part, has brushed off the incident, saying that she is focused on her performance on the court. She believes that increased opportunities for women in sports will help to elevate the game and address issues like inappropriate behavior.

However, the incident has sparked a wider conversation about sexism and professionalism in sports journalism. Many have called for a shift in the way female athletes are treated by media members, particularly in light of recent controversies involving inappropriate questions and remarks.

In conclusion, Gregg Doyel's suspension and removal from the WNBA beat serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism and respect in sports journalism. While freedom of the press is essential, it must be balanced with the right of athletes to be treated with dignity and respect. The incident also highlights the need for continued progress in addressing sexism and gender bias in the media.