Mets invite controversial TikTok star for ceremonial pitch, face backlash.
Hailey Welch, known for her viral ‘Hawk tuah’ TikTok video, threw the ceremonial first pitch at a Mets game on Thursday. The 22-year-old tossed the ball from the mound at Citi Field in Queens, New York.
After her throw, Welch celebrated with friends in attendance. However, the Mets’ decision to invite the Nashville resident stirred a debate online.
Welch had become an internet sensation earlier this year when her unfiltered dating advice from a street interview went viral. She has since capitalized on her new-found fame through fan events and merchandise sales.
Commenters online were critical of legitimizing Welch and giving her a public platform. Some questioned inviting her over Olympic medalists. Others disapproved of her participation at a family-focused afternoon game with youth present.
While the social media star enjoyed her experience, the MLB team has faced significant backlash for allegedly poor selection. Critics said better choices could have been made for the ceremonial duty.
The controversy has sparked discussion around vetting public figures invited by sports clubs and consequences of social media notoriety without filtering content.
