BREAKING: ESPN fires their only female commentator critical of men in women’s sports, citing financial reasons: report

A source briefed on the matter told The Athletic that the decisions were made for financial reasons, with ESPN’s fiscal year concluding at the end of September. Ponder and Griffin both made over seven figures. They were informed of the decision on Thursday morning.

Ponder was set to enter the final season of a three-year deal with the outlet, which was worth more than $3 million, sources with knowledge of her contract said. Ponder replaced Chris Berman on Sunday NFL Countdown in 2017.

In response to the firing, former University of Kentucky swimmer and women’s sports advocate Riley Gaines wrote, "So ESPN fires Sam Ponder, the only woman at the network who was publicly said men don't belong in women's sports. 3 weeks before football season? Sam is one of the most beautiful, genuine women I've ever met along with Sage Steele who had a similar fate....not a coincidence."

Ponder has supported the women who competed on the same team as University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas, who is a trans-identified male. She wrote in response to one teammate's testimony before Congress, "Paula you are so brave and your voice is so important."

Speaking out against the inclusion of biological males in women's sports, Ponder wrote, "This would take away so many opportunities for biological women and girls in sports. It is a shame that we are needing to fight for the integrity of Title IX in 2023 and the reason it was needed in the first place."

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