Sexism In Sport Essay

Sport plays a crucial role in today’s society. It is an activity that not only maintains an individual’s physical shape, but it is also capable of teaching people imperative aspects of life such as sportsmanship and teamwork. Despite these positive influences that sport can have on athletes, the issue of sexism in sport remains to be an extremely problematic factor in our society. I agree with Joe Humphrey’s view on sports to a large extent. In order to substantiate my perspective I will explore the topic of sexism in sport and discuss how gender inequality in sports creates barriers between groups, encourages unethical and discriminatory behaviour and makes us lose perspective of the true purpose of sport.

Sexism is defined as the prejudicial behaviour, stereotyping, or discrimination against other people on the basis of sex. In sport, sexism is typically applied to women more than men. Sport has always been considered as a men’s activity that was created by men for men. Women do not get the same recognition in sport as men because their stereotyped personalities have caused people to see them as weak and not strong enough physically and emotionally to participate in sport. This lack of recognition results in an absence of woman athletes in male dominated sports, female athletes receiving less sponsorship money than men, and a poor publication of female athletes in the media. Although most of these stereotypes affect women, there are some sports in which men are discriminated against because of their gender.

Gender stereotyping exists in sport because of the idea that sport is an activity that requires strength, power and agility. These are commonly qualities associated with men and differ from the stereotypical weakness, frail...

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... equal, where we can fulfil our dreams and where we can be an inspiration to others. This was not the case for Semenya because, despite her success and merit for her country, she was discriminated against in a critical manner, leaving her feeling humiliated and vulnerable.

In my opinion, watching men participate in sport is much more exciting and entertaining. Their aggression and strength leaves me in awe; while when women compete, it is much slower and relatively tedious. Although I prefer to watch men in sport, I still believe that women deserve the equal opportunities that men have. Female participation in sport must be more widely recognised by broadcasting their events on television for the world to admire and acknowledge their talent and contribution to sport. Sport is all about fairness and equality, and sexism in sport must be fought against and outlawed.