Indiana Fever basketball star Sophie Cunningham is known for speaking her mind, and she recently turned her attention to the world of American football. The WNBA athlete offered a blunt assessment of one of the NFL's biggest names, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, specifically focusing on his age and future in the sport.
Cunningham's Candid Take on Kelce's Football Age
During an appearance on the Show Me Something podcast, Sophie Cunningham reacted to news about Travis Kelce's retirement considerations. The NFL star had discussed his post-career plans on his popular podcast, New Heights, with his brother Jason. Cunningham's response was straightforward. She expressed surprise that Kelce is still playing at 36, calling it "pretty old for football."
"Travis is 36? That is pretty old for football. I was thinking 30, 31 or 32 would be pretty old for football," Cunningham stated. She admitted she had assumed the Super Bowl champion was in his early thirties, not approaching his late thirties.
Kelce's Stellar Career Defies the Age Conversation
Despite Cunningham's comments about his age, Travis Kelce remains one of the most dominant and productive tight ends in the NFL. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013, he has spent his entire professional career with the franchise, becoming a central figure in their recent dynasty of success.
Even at 36, Kelce continues to be a primary target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a crucial part of the Chiefs' offense. His performance continues to defy conventional expectations for an athlete of his age in such a physically demanding sport. He is set to become a free agent in the upcoming NFL offseason, though his future with the Chiefs remains a topic of discussion among fans and analysts.
Beyond the Field: Kelce's High-Profile Life
The conversation about Travis Kelce extends far beyond the football field. His life off the gridiron has captured global attention, most notably due to his relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift. The couple's recent engagement has placed Kelce firmly in the international spotlight, merging the worlds of sports and entertainment.
Sophie Cunningham's unfiltered remarks highlight the perennial sports debate about athlete longevity. While she playfully questioned how long a 36-year-old can compete at the highest level, Kelce's current form and achievements suggest he is writing his own rules. The exchange serves as a fascinating crossover moment between the WNBA and the NFL, driven by one athlete's honest opinion on another.
