Gender inequality in sport: towards progress in equality?

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For decades, women have struggled to secure their place in the world of sport, a field long dominated by men. Even today, inequalities persist, but significant progress has been made. Gender equality in sport has made progress, but there is still much to be done .

The History of Inequality in Sport

Sport, over the centuries, has always been a predominantly male arena. The first editions of the Olympic Games excluded women, and it was only after a few decades that they were allowed to participate. However, progress towards gender equality in sport was not immediate. Although changes have occurred, significant disparities persist in many areas.

Progress, but inequalities remain

One of the most glaring areas of inequality in sport remains the gender pay gap. While this gap has narrowed in recent years, with nearly 83% of sports offering equal pay, notable differences remain. Female athletes continue to be paid less than their male counterparts, reflecting a system that is still far from complete equality.

The under-representation of sportswomen in the media

Despite their exceptional performances, female athletes are largely underrepresented in the media. Indeed, 85% of media mentions concern men, and 90% of articles are written by male journalists. This imbalance highlights the lack of visibility of female athletes, contributing to the perpetuation of stereotypes and inequality.

Iconic figures for equality

Pioneers like Billie Jean King have made sports history by challenging convention. Not only did she shine on the tennis court, but she also dedicated her life to defending women's rights in sports. Still active even after her retirement, she advocates for gender equality through organizations and publications.

Serena Williams , for her part, embodies the power and determination of women in modern sports. Beyond her titles, she has also used her platform to advocate for women's rights, particularly regarding equal pay and media visibility for female athletes.

Change is happening: the example of the 2024 Olympic Games

The 2024 Olympic Games marked a milestone in the history of sporting competitions by achieving full gender parity among participants. This development represents a significant step forward towards equality and demonstrates that a more equitable sporting world is possible.

In this changing landscape, new voices are emerging, combining a passion for sport with a desire for change. Female entrepreneurship is taking on a growing role, with initiatives that combine athletic performance and respect for the environment. This approach is particularly close to the heart of the founder of IZOM Athlétique , herself an athlete and deeply committed to this evolution. Through an eco-responsible brand, IZOM Athlétique strives to support athletes while respecting ecological issues .