“I’m sorry” – World Cup reporter speaks up after getting criticism for a comment some called “insensitive” and “not okay.”
An American TV reporter had to apologize after making a comment that many found “insensitive” and “inappropriate” about the USA’s next World Cup opponents.
The US Men’s National Team (USMNT) will play Bosnia and Herzegovina in the first knockout round after finishing first in Group D. Even though they lost 3-2 to Turkey in their last group game, they stayed on top thanks to earlier wins against Paraguay and Australia.
Now, the US faces Bosnia, who finished third in Group B, behind Switzerland and Canada. As co-hosts of the tournament, Mauricio Pochettino’s team will be hopeful about reaching the last 16 and maybe even the quarter-finals, with the winner of this match set to play either Belgium or Senegal.
But the US can’t underestimate Bosnia, a team that beat both Wales and Italy to qualify for the World Cup.
Bosnian players might even feel more motivated after hearing what ABC reporter Abigail Velez said live from Long Beach, California. While previewing the matchup, she joked that she didn’t know much about Bosnia.
“One thing about Bosnia, I could not point out where it is on a map,” Velez said. “I don’t know the first thing about Bosnia, and I don’t wanna know. That’s because Team USA, we’re back, we’re better than ever. That’s next Wednesday. Get prepared, Bosnia, because you don’t want it. You don’t want it like that. But you’re gonna get it.”
Her words didn’t sit well and quickly attracted attention online. Early Sunday morning, Velez posted an apology on social media for her bad attempt at humor.
“In a poor effort to have a little fun with World Cup competition, I took it too far and made a thoughtless comment on air that was insensitive and inappropriate,” she wrote.
“I apologize to the people of Bosnia and the Bosnian football team. The World Cup is about bringing communities together, and my comment did not reflect that spirit. I wish all the teams the best as the tournament goes on.”