The Spectator Sport of Misogyny: How Women’s Sports Became a Battleground
A staggering 130% increase in viewership of the WNBA by boys under 18. Record-breaking ratings. Growing global interest in women’s football. Yet, as women’s sports surge in popularity, they’re simultaneously becoming a focal point for a disturbing trend: the weaponization of sexism. From the bizarre spectacle of dildo-flinging to the insidious practice of “period betting,” the rise of women in sports isn’t being celebrated by everyone – and the implications are far-reaching.
From Memecoins to Menstrual Cycles: A New Low in Sports Fandom
The recent incidents – the disruption of WNBA games by projectiles linked to the cryptocurrency ‘Green Dildo Coin,’ Donald Trump Jr.’s predictably crude response – were shocking, but arguably a symptom of a larger problem. They represent a particularly brazen form of online toxicity spilling into the real world. But the focus is shifting, and the new frontier of harassment is disturbingly personal. **Period betting**, the practice of gamblers attempting to predict athletic performance based on a player’s menstrual cycle, is gaining traction.
Influencers are openly discussing strategies, citing supposed performance dips during the late luteal phase. The logic, however flimsy, rests on the scientifically established link between hormonal fluctuations and athletic ability. Researchers at University College London have demonstrated that reaction times can indeed be faster during ovulation. But the leap from scientific understanding to exploiting athletes for profit is deeply problematic.
The Data Privacy Nightmare
How are these gamblers gaining – or attempting to gain – this information? Guesses, injury reports referencing “soreness,” and a chilling possibility: hacking or exploiting data from period tracking apps. The vulnerability of this data isn’t hypothetical. Meta was recently found liable for collecting data from Flo, a popular period tracking app, without user consent, highlighting the precarious state of reproductive health data privacy. This raises serious questions about the security of sensitive personal information and the potential for its misuse.
Beyond Harassment: The Broader Implications
This isn’t simply about annoying or invasive behavior; it’s about control. It’s about attempting to diminish women’s achievements by reducing their athleticism to biological functions. It echoes a long history of attempts to disqualify women from competitive spaces. The incidents mirror the disturbing pattern seen during the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where the joy of victory was marred by Luis Rubiales’ non-consensual kiss, a blatant display of power and entitlement. Data from Kick It Out shows a record increase in reports of misogyny and sexism in English football, demonstrating a worrying trend.
However, amidst the negativity, there’s a glimmer of potential. The very fact that gamblers are focusing on the menstrual cycle suggests a growing recognition – albeit a twisted one – of the physiological realities of female athletes. Could this attention, however unwelcome, lead to increased funding for women’s health research? It’s a cynical hope, but one worth considering.
The Future of Women’s Sports: Navigating the Toxicity
The growth of women’s sports is undeniable. Nielsen Sports predicts women’s football will be a top five sport globally by 2030. But sustained growth requires addressing the toxic undercurrents that threaten to derail progress. This means stronger security measures for period tracking apps, stricter penalties for harassment (both online and offline), and a fundamental shift in the culture surrounding sports fandom. It also requires media outlets and governing bodies to proactively address these issues, rather than reacting to them after the fact.
The challenge isn’t just about protecting athletes; it’s about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for the next generation of female competitors and fans. The current situation is a stark reminder that progress isn’t linear, and that the fight for equality in sports – and beyond – is far from over. What steps do you think sports organizations should take to combat these issues and ensure a safe and respectful environment for female athletes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
