The Athletic published an in‐depth profile detailing how a viral, false rumor devastated the life of a college student, highlighting the harmful effects of misinformation amplified by prominent sports media figures. The report exposes the dangers of online harassment and misinformation, reinforcing public accountability in the media landscape.

The Athletic's investigative report detailed how a salacious, unfounded rumor spread on the Pat McAfee Show led to severe harassment of a college student, with the story highlighting the dangers of unchecked misogyny in sports media and the broader harmful impact of such narratives.

Approximately 200 U.S.-based editorial staffers at The Athletic have initiated efforts to join the New York Times union, as the publication increasingly relies on Athletic staff for sports coverage. The organizing committee has formally reached out via email to the Times' leadership, seeking stronger labor rights and union representation for its reporters.

Following the New York Times' acquisition, The Athletic’s Chief Content Officer Paul Fichtenbaum announced new editorial guidelines on June 8 that prohibit staff from engaging in political speech. This rule has raised concerns among employees regarding the suppression of important political discourse, potentially sidelining coverage of key issues impacting marginalized communities.

The New York Times newsroom union filed a grievance contesting the plan to shutter its standalone sports desk and shift coverage duties to The Athletic's non-bargaining unit employees, alleging a violation of union contracts and undermining worker rights.

During an all-company meeting at The New York Times, employees expressed frustration over the decision to disband the sports section and subcontract sports coverage to nonunion staff at The Athletic, raising concerns over labor rights and fair employment practices.

The Athletic, owned by The New York Times, announced layoffs affecting nearly 4% of its newsroom, displacing about 20 journalists and reassigning 20 others in a restructuring effort.

On June 12, 2023, The Athletic announced layoffs affecting nearly 20 reporters as part of a strategic change in its coverage approach. This decision has raised concerns about the company's treatment of its journalistic workforce.

The Athletic's recent layoffs, reported as part of a vicious cycle in sports journalism, highlight a pattern of unstable employment and poor labor practices that undermine the well-being of journalistic workers.

On June 12, 2023, The Athletic announced it would cut nearly 20 newsroom jobs (about 4% of its staff) as part of a reorganization following its acquisition by The New York Times, affecting the livelihoods of several journalists.

On June 12, 2023, The Athletic laid off 20 journalists as part of a strategic shift in its coverage priorities amid ongoing financial losses. This restructuring has significant implications for worker rights and job security within the organization.