Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has shared a strong message for her online critics, using a famous Mike Tyson quote after reportedly facing criticism over an earlier social media post. The 30-year-old basketball player did not name anyone or explain what prompted her latest Instagram Story. However, the timing of the post has drawn attention, as it followed her message about personal responsibility, self-improvement and the role of politics in American life.
Sophie Cunningham shares Mike Tyson’s quote after reported social media backlash
Cunningham shared the quote on her Instagram Story after reposting a lengthy message from entrepreneur Andy Frisella on November 4, one day after the 2026 US midterm elections. The message focused on how people often expect elections and politicians to improve their lives but spend less time working on themselves.Frisella questioned why Americans place so much trust in elections while overlooking their own ability to bring change. He also argued that improving the country starts with people taking responsibility for their actions and choices.One line from his message stood out: “Personal excellence is the Ultimate Rebellion.”The post did not support a particular political party or candidate. Instead, it focused on personal growth, discipline and self-reliance. However, the message reportedly attracted criticism online, and Cunningham later shared Tyson’s quote in response to the online atmosphere.“Social media made y’all way too comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched in the face for it,” the quote read.Cunningham did not add her own explanation or point towards a particular person. Therefore, it is unclear whether the message was directed at people who criticised her earlier post or was a broader comment about the way people behave on social media.According to Fox News, the Indiana Fever guard shared the quote after the reported backlash. Complex also reported on the two Instagram Stories and their timing.
Sophie Cunningham has previously spoken about online criticism and her public image
This is not the first time Cunningham has addressed the criticism that comes with being a public figure. Her opinions outside basketball have often brought her into wider discussions, particularly after her comments about transgender women competing in women’s sports.In July 2026, Cunningham spoke to ESPN about the issue and said she wanted to protect young girls in sports and locker rooms. Her comments drew strong reactions, including criticism from former US soccer star Megan Rapinoe. They also received support from people who agreed with her position.Cunningham has also made it clear that negative comments do not decide how she views herself as a basketball player. During an October episode of her No Hesitation podcast, she responded to an article from The Athletic that questioned whether her public image had become a problem for the Fever, especially with her scoring average below eight points per game.“I literally don’t even care what anybody says about me anymore,” Cunningham said. “If you’re going to live by the praise, you’re going to die by the hate.”She also explained why she believes her contribution to a team cannot always be judged through points and other numbers.“I know what I bring to the table, it’s not always in the stat sheet,” she added.Cunningham has also spoken about concerns over her personal safety. During her October 28 appearance on Theo Von’s This Past Weekend podcast, she claimed that the FBI was watching around 20 people over possible stalking concerns involving her. The FBI has not publicly confirmed her claim, according to the Los Angeles Times.She also said that increased attention has made personal security more important as her public profile continues to grow.