Comparing Women's Sports And Gender Stereotypes

What is the first image you see in your head when you hear the word, athlete? Do you see a tall, strong man or do you see a woman? At an early age it is engrained in our minds that as women, we aren't as talented at sports as men are. This stereotype has been disproven by the many female athletes that are thriving and are considered some of the best athletes in the world. Progress has been made but the stereotype still exists and is relevant in sports. This stereotype directly relates to the popularity of men’s sports versus women’s and the equality between the two. Is there a probable reason for women sports to not be on the same advanced level as men’s? Or it is a case of gender stereotype.
Serena Williams is an example of a woman athlete
Serena has been criticized for her muscular and athletic figure on multiple occasions. Instead of praising the strength and tone of her body that she has gained from playing tennis so fiercely, she is criticized for looking not looking feminine enough. The criticism continued to insulting how she played which resulted in the comment “playing like a man”. It is commonly assumed that it is impossible for a woman to still be feminine while being able to play a sport. However, these are not mutually exclusive. On top of her physique and the way she plays tennis, she has also been questioned about her sexuality which has nothing to do with her ability to play tennis. It is all based upon the same stereotype that women are not good at sports and if they are they are automatically considered to be masculine and “manly” in the eyes of the media. Serena Williams is not the only female athlete who has been ridiculed based upon her gender. No matter the sport or the talent of the athlete, it seems to be considered relevant to discuss their legitimacy as a woman whatever that may
There is no shortage of female athletes who participate in national and international competitions and provide victories for their teams. The Olympics are one example where all nationalities, races, and genders thrive and bring home gold medals for their country. The progress, within the realm of sports, to include all genders, sexualities, and races is undeniable. Therefore, this stereotype has never been so irrelevant. The use of stereotypes to generalize a certain characteristic is degrading and embarrassing. It is completely false that women aren’t as good at sports as