New York Jets star cornerback Sauce Gardner has apologized for an antisemitic comment he made over the weekend.
The original comment came during a livestream the 23-year-old was participating in with popular streamer Adin Ross, who is Jewish. Making reference to Ross and another Jewish man, Gardner invoked an ugly stereotype by stating, “ya’ll run the world.”
After receiving backlash for his comments, the Cincinnati product took to social media to address the matter.
“I love all people. While my intentions were positive, I just learned that people use those exact words I shared for hate towards Jewish people,” Gardner posted to X (formerly Twitter). “That is not what I am about and I appreciate those who took the time to educate me on that fact.”
I love all people. While my intentions were positive, I just learned that people use those exact words I shared for hate towards Jewish people. That is not what I am about and I appreciate those who took the time to educate me on that fact.
— SAUCE GARDNER (@iamSauceGardner) March 26, 2024
Ross responded to Gardner’s post, writing: “Bro I’m Jewish. You did and said nothing wrong you said Jews run the world in a good way which is true, I said you were fine so ima defend you.”
The Jets selected Gardner with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. In addition to being named the 2022 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, he has earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections in each of the first two years of his NFL career.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.