Aug 15, 2025

Opinion: As women's sport grows, so do the threats to racialized athletes

Opinion: As women's sport grows, so do the threats to racialized athletes

In her column, writer Shireen Ahmed highlights the growing dangers of radicalization and threats against female athletes—dangers that rise in step with the growth of women’s sport. She points to the sad example of England defender Jess Carter, who was subjected to a wave of racist abuse.

  • As women's sports gain visibility and popularity, they also attract a surge in racist and misogynistic abuse, especially targeting racialized athletes. Ahmed argues that increased attention brings not just support—but deeper, more pervasive hatred.
  • Ahmed emphasizes that these threats persist despite the presence of well-intentioned initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion. She urges recognition that hatred can thrive even in supportive environments, requiring deeper, systemic action beyond surface-level programs.

Read the whole article here.

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