President Donald Trump praised WNBA star Sophie Cunningham during a campaign rally in Youngstown, Ohio, on Monday. He called her a “beautiful young woman” and joked that saying so could end a politician’s career.
Trump speaks at Ohio rally
Trump spoke at the Covelli Centre while supporting Republican candidates ahead of the midterm elections. He told the crowd he likes Sophie Cunningham of the Indiana Fever.
“You have a lot of men wanting to go and watch her. She’s beautiful. You’re not allowed to say that anymore,” he said.
He quickly added a joke. “As a politician, please, please let me take it back. Anytime a politician says a woman is beautiful, that’s generally the end of his political career in the modern-day political world.”
Attendance over points
Trump continued, “But Sophie is a beautiful young woman. You probably wouldn’t mind her on the team. Not to help you with points but to help you with attendance.”
Cunningham, a free agent after the 2026 season, has gained popularity partly for her views on protecting women’s sports. She has spoken against transgender athletes competing in women’s categories, aligning with positions supported by the Trump administration.
Reactions follow quickly
The comments drew mixed responses online. Some fans called the remarks outdated or inappropriate. Others saw them as light-hearted praise for a popular player. Cunningham averaged about 7.9 points per game this season and shot well from three-point range while helping the Fever reach the playoffs.
Trump’s words put fresh attention on Cunningham as teams prepare for free agency. The rally remarks spread quickly across news and social media on October 13, 2026.
