A prominent Channel Nine sports presenter finds himself at the centre of a fiery controversy after being accused of wilfully mispronouncing a rugby star's traditional Fijian surname.
Matt Thompson, a familiar face on the network's NRL coverage, has faced a torrent of criticism from viewers and commentators alike. The issue arose during a broadcast when Thompson repeatedly referred to Wallabies and NSW Waratahs winger Mark Nawaqanitawase simply as 'Mark' or by his nickname 'Marky Mark', rather than attempting his full surname.
Viewers Voice Their Disapproval
The broadcasting choice did not go unnoticed. A flood of comments on social media condemned the approach as "lazy" and "disrespectful". Many argued that making a genuine effort to pronounce athletes' names correctly is a fundamental sign of respect, particularly for those with names of cultural significance.
One viewer pointedly remarked on the irony, noting that commentators rarely stumble over complex European names, yet often shy away from Polynesian or Indigenous ones. The incident has ignited a broader conversation about inclusivity and representation in Australian sports media.
The Correct Pronunciation
For those unfamiliar, the proper pronunciation of the rising rugby star's name is Nah-wonga-nit-aww-see. Fellow journalists and fans were quick to highlight that several guides and audio clips demonstrating the correct pronunciation are readily available online, making Thompson's avoidance seem all the more deliberate.
This is not the first time the challenge of pronouncing Nawaqanitawase's name has made headlines. Earlier in his career, the player himself good-naturedly assisted commentators, even approving the use of his nickname to ease the burden. However, the context of this latest incident has been perceived differently, with many seeing it as a step too far.
A Question of Professional Standards
The backlash poses a significant question for sports broadcasters everywhere: is it a core part of their job to learn and correctly pronounce the names of the athletes they cover? For many, the answer is a resounding yes, viewing it as a non-negotiable aspect of professional preparation and basic cultural courtesy.
As of now, Channel Nine and Matt Thompson have not publicly commented on the growing criticism. The incident continues to spark debate on air and online about the standards expected of those who bring the game into the homes of millions of fans.
