Andrea Khoury

11.D

The Role of Media Covering in Promoting Women’s Sports

In the world of athletics, male athletes frequently receive the most attention, while female
competitors are largely ignored. This disparity reflects not only performance but also the way the
media portrays women's sports. This essay explores the effect of media attention, looking at how
it might help female athletes succeed while also recognizing the obstacles it presents to real
equity in the sports industry.

The incredible journey of the Matildas, Australia’s women’s football (soccer) team,
during the 2023 Women's World Cup serves as a perfect example of the significant influence that
media coverage has on women's sports. The team's fame skyrocketed as more people watched
their matches on television and read newspaper articles. A total of 75,784 fans packed out
Stadium Australia on Wednesday night for the Matildas' semifinal clash with England - officially
a sell-out. As well as, according to Sports Business Journal, Seven West Media said preliminary
data showed Australia's 3-1 loss on Wednesday night attracted a total of 11.15 million viewers
watching at one point during the broadcast. The athletes' vital financial assistance came from a
rise in sponsorship agreements and endorsements brought about by this spike in interest. In
addition, the Matildas became influential role models for aspiring female athletes, demonstrating
that women can succeed on the international arena. A new generation of female athletes was also
motivated by the Matildas' increased prominence, underscoring the revolutionary role that media
coverage has in advancing women's sports. More people started to get familiar with the big
Aussie names such as, Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord, Mackenzie Arnold (A.K.A Macca, or
Mackenzie “brick wall” Arnold) and so many more names that became so big after the
competition. This allowed football star player, Sam Kerr, 2 nd in Women’s Ballon d’or 2022-23,
to get inspired and develop a football academy for youngsters, both boys and girls. The Sam Kerr
Football Centre, teaches kids the skill of the game and how to fall in love with it.

Some contend that although if media attention to women's sports has grown, it still
largely focuses on a small number of prominent athletes, leaving many others out of the
spotlight. For example, at big leagues like the WNBA, the attention is frequently focused on a
few standout players, overshadowing the team's collective efforts. The development and
recognition of less well-known sportswomen may be hampered by this uneven attention
allocation. Furthermore, worries about possible biases in media portrayals continue. Critics
highlight situations in which the analysis and evaluation of women's sports diverges from that of
men's sports. The unequal treatment of athletes contributes to the ongoing feeling of inequity in
the sports industry. Concerns have also been raised over an excessive focus on attractiveness and
marketability at the expense of real athletic. A lot of talk goes on between teenage boys about the
looks of female atheletes or simply over sexualising them. For example, Alisha Lehmann, Swiss
and Aston Villa female footballer, is well-known between boys due to her pretty looks and body
but not because of her great talent, which is saddening.

As we reflect on the impact of media coverage on women's sports, it's evident that strides
have been made, yet there remains a substantial path ahead. Sabrina Ionescu's remarkable
journey stands as a beacon of inspiration, illustrating the transformative power of recognition.
Her exceptional achievements in the realm of basketball have not only redefined the possibilities
for women in the sport but also underscored the potential that lies within every female athlete.
Nevertheless, it's imperative to confront the biases that persist within media representation. By
dismantling preconceptions and advocating for equitable coverage, we endeavor to create a
sporting world that truly celebrates talent irrespective of gender. The call for fair and balanced
media coverage extends beyond the realm of sports; it's a call for societal progress and the
affirmation that every athlete, regardless of their gender, merits their moment in the sun.
Together, let us forge a path towards a future where every Sabrina Ionescu, and every
exceptional female athlete, is rightfully celebrated, forging a legacy of inclusivity and
empowerment in the world of sports.