Style Living Self Celebrity Geeky News and Views
In the Paper BrandedUp Hello! Create with us Privacy Policy

BBC presenter innocently compliments British swimmer’s ‘third leg,’ Twitter reacts hilariously

By PINKY S. ICAMEN Published Jul 30, 2021 9:17 pm

So, BBC presenter Clare Balding has been the talk of the Twitterverse recently, following an interview with Team GB swimmers bathed in unintentional sexual innuendo on national TV.

British swimmers Tom Dean and Matthew Richards, gold medalists of the 4x200 meter relay at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, were Balding’s remote guests at the BBC Olympics highlights show.

During the interview, Balding complimented Richards’ performance during the competition.

“Matt, you’re 18 years old, it’s your first Olympics, and you swam…honestly, your third leg was just phenomenal,” she said empathically.

Balding was referring to Richards swimming third in the four-leg relay and not you-know-what. (“Third leg” is slang for “penis.”)

For a quick second, Dean and Richards are seen fighting to keep a straight face and restrain their giggles. But eventually, Richards regain his composure and started answering Balding, while Dean is seen still smirking right after.

Team GB swimmers and 4x200 relay gold medalists Tom Dean and Matthew Richards trying to stifle a laugh after Clare Baldwin innocently complimented Richards on this 'phenomenal third leg.' Screenshot from BBC

“Yeah I mean I haven’t actually had a chance to watch it back yet. I’ve tried to find it. To be honest, I’m having trouble finding the video of the race,” Richards responded.

Balding’s gaffe quickly made rounds on social media, with Twitter having a field day on the slip-up.

“Catching up on Olympics and heard Clare Balding interviewing the lad in the GB swimming relay team telling him that his third leg was amazing, the childish side of me had to have a giggle,” a Twitter user wrote.

Some also pointed out how hilarious it was as Dean stifles a laugh.

Another one said, “Clare Balding just said to (4x200m freestyle gold medalist) Matt Richards, ‘Matt, your third leg was incredible’…I didn’t think she’d be focusing on that, if I’m honest.”

Even supermarket chain Aldi chimed in and referenced the innuend, reminding people to "stock up on sausages" before the barbecue season ends.

Check out the viral clip below.

Banner and thumbnail screenshots from BBC

TAGS: Clare Balding BBC Olympics Matthew Richards Tom Dean

About the author

PINKY S. ICAMEN

Writer

Pinky is a writer who is game to take a flight to nowhere. She surrenders to the allure of unhurried coffee house culture and is still in search for the best mojito.