Commentator Bob Ballard axed from Paris Olympics over sexist remark
Former Olympian Bob Ballard has been removed from his role as a commentator at the Paris Olympics after making a sexist remark about the Australian women's swimming team.
Ballard, who was commentating on the women's 4x100m freestyle relay final, said that the Australian team "only won because the Chinese team had a bad changeover."
The comment was widely condemned on social media, with many users accusing Ballard of sexism and bias.
In a statement, Eurosport, the broadcaster that employs Ballard, said that it had "decided to remove Bob Ballard from our commentary team for the remainder of the Olympic Games."
"We do not tolerate any form of sexism or discrimination at Eurosport, and we apologize for the offense caused by Mr. Ballard's remarks," the statement said.
Ballard has since apologized for his comments, saying that he "misspoke" and that he did not intend to offend anyone.
"I am deeply sorry for my comments, and I apologize to the Australian team and to all those who were offended by them," Ballard said.
The Australian women's swimming team went on to win the gold medal in the 4x100m freestyle relay, their fourth consecutive Olympic title in the event.
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