Olympic swimming commentator Bob Ballard has been suspended for ‘sexist’ comments

An Olympic commentator has been sacked after a controversial comment about the Australian women’s swimming team.

Bob Ballard, commentator for the Warner Bros. Discovery network Eurosport, was commenting on the swimming during the second day of the Olympics when he said: “Well, the women have just finished, you know how women are. Just sitting around, you know, doing their makeup.

A female colleague, believed to be fellow commentator and former Olympian Lizzie Simmonds, responded: “Disgraceful, Bob. Do some men do that too?” Ballard laughed in response.

Ballard was speaking as the Australian team collected their gold medals for winning the women’s 4x100m relay.

The 15-second clip quickly went viral on social media, leading to Ballard being dropped by the broadcaster. This is what a Eurosport spokesperson said Variety: “We can confirm that Bob Ballard has been removed from our commentary roster, effective immediately.”

Ballard is a journalist and former commentator who, according to his website, also commentates on diving, ice hockey, basketball and wheelchair tennis. “I provide insightful and engaging commentary that keeps audiences captivated,” his website says. He also works as a music DJ and journalism teacher.

Addressing the X controversy, Ballard wrote: “The comments I made during the Australian Freestyle Relay victory ceremony on Saturday caused some offence. It was never my intention to upset or belittle anyone, and if I did, I apologize. I am a big supporter of women’s sports. I will miss the Eurosport team very much and wish them all the best for the rest of the Olympic Games. No further comment will be made. Thank you.”