SportsCenter anchor Gary Striewski is facing backlash following an awkward interaction with PGA golfer Sahith Theegala’s fiancée, Juju Chan.
Striewski shared a TikTok video depicting his encounter with Chan at a coffee shop in Connecticut during the Travelers Championship, which took place relatively close to ESPN’s base in Bristol.
The 39-year-old mentioned that he recognized Chan from her social media presence and, while seated nearby, leaned over to ask her, “Has anyone found you?” This prompted a glance of disdain from Chan, who replied with a simple, “What’s up?”
Striewski remarked that he found the exchange puzzling, as he believed that being active on social media creates an expectation for public recognition and an obligation to engage positively.
A short while later, someone else in the same café initiated a friendly chat with Striewski, which he contrasted with his earlier experience.
Chan later responded to these claims, asserting that they didn’t unfold as Striewski described and accused him of spreading misinformation.
She expressed confusion about why he would initiate a conversation with such an odd question, noting she didn’t know who he was at the time.
“I felt offended, but I tried to laugh it off,” she shared.
Chan further explained that she found Striewski’s conduct “highly unprofessional” and suggested it incited negative feelings towards her.
Sahith Theegala supported his fiancée, commenting on her post, “That man should never have put you in this position… I love you so much, and I’m incredibly proud of how you handled it. Your kindness and care shine through to those who know you.”
In response to the controversy, Striewski released another video addressing the inquiry about Chan during Theegala’s absence, but viewers remained unconvinced. He also took a couple of occasions to mention that he looks good for his age.
