In a notable incident at the Paris 2024 Olympics, BBC commentator Steve Backley found himself at the center of attention after misgendering US shot putter Raven Saunders, a non-binary athlete who uses they/them pronouns. During the women’s shot put qualification round, Backley repeatedly referred to Saunders as “her,” prompting his co-commentator Jazmin Sawyers to correct him on-air. The exchange highlighted the ongoing challenges and importance of respecting athletes’ gender identities.
Raven Saunders, known for their distinctive style and outspoken personality, has been a prominent figure in athletics, earning a silver medal in the Tokyo games. Their return to the Olympic stage was marked by their unique appearance, donning a thick black mask, orange-tinted sunglasses, and hair dyed in vibrant green and purple hues. Saunders has shared in the past how wearing masks helps them focus and avoid distractions, a practice that began during the pandemic.
The BBC has yet to comment on Backley’s pronoun error. However, the incident underscores the importance of proper pronoun usage, particularly for non-binary and transgender individuals. As Saunders continued to compete, they remained a powerful symbol of resilience and self-expression, inspiring many with their strength both on and off the field.