Sports Illustrated revises headline after backlash over WNBA foul coverage

Sports Illustrated altered the headline of its story about a flagrant foul in a WNBA game after receiving criticism on social media. The original title described the incident as "karma" for Indiana Fever forward Sophie Cunningham, who was struck by Chicago Sky forward DiJonai Carrington during a layup attempt in the first quarter of Saturday's game, which the Fever won 90-86. The foul was classified as a Flagrant 2, leading to Carrington's ejection.

The headline was seen by many as a commentary on Cunningham's recent public statements regarding transgender athletes, prompting accusations that the magazine was taking a partisan stance. The article was later retitled to focus on Cunningham's role in the game rather than suggesting retributive justice.

Cunningham acknowledged a prior flagrant foul she committed in the 2025 season and said she deserved the earlier ejection. She also addressed Carrington's post on social media that read "WHITE PRIVILEGE," stating that the league would handle the matter and that the comment was unrelated to race.

Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White defended the decision to eject Carrington, describing the foul as hard but not intentional, and affirmed that the call was appropriate. She declined to comment on Carrington's social-media post.

OutKick, a media outlet, contacted Sports Illustrated for comment on the headline change but did not receive a response.