Crossing the Line: Reflections on Celebratory Boundaries in Sports
The stigma attached to women in sports is not a novel concept. Traditionally, sports have been perceived as a predominantly masculine pursuit. Nevertheless, in our contemporary era, this stereotype is gradually disappearing. Events like the Women's World Cup have not only served as a source of inspiration for girls across all age groups but have also fostered moments of collective celebration, uniting both men and women in support of their respective teams. While this stands as a powerful testament to unity, regrettably, these intense emotions can sometimes result in unfavorable consequences. The unfortunate affair faced by the Spanish women's football team serves as an illustration of this.
Luis Rubiales, known as the former Spanish soccer president, recently resigned from his position after kissing Spanish player Jennifer Hermoso without her consent. The issue within this case is not just about boundaries, but also about a man deciding what is consent for a woman. Previously, Rubiales told Spanish media that the kiss was “mutual”, which Hermoso denied, and felt as if her boundaries were being overpassed. The event led to the Spanish national prosecutor investigating the story, which can usually lead to charges.
The resignation of Luis Rubiales, though it did occur, raises a disconcerting issue in that he was not promptly dismissed for his actions. Instead of facing immediate termination, he ultimately chose to step down under the weight of mounting pressure from both the media and advocacy groups. There is a pressing need for more strict protocols addressing inappropriate conduct in the realm of sports. The incident involving the kiss represents just one instance of Rubiales's transgressions. Another incident occurred during a game, when he was observed engaging in inappropriate behavior while celebrating a goal in close proximity to one of the Princesses.
These actions run counter to the ongoing struggle for justice and equality within the football community. His resignation under the pretext of feeling "pressured" does not absolve the blatant disregard for boundaries and consent. It is imperative that women should not be subjected to, nor conditioned to accept, inappropriate conduct within their professional environment.
References:
Bloomberg, R. O. /. (2023, September 11). DisGraCED head of Spanish soccer Luis Rubiales finally resigns after World Cup kiss scandal. Time. https://time.com/6312552/luis-rubiales-spain-football-chief-resigns-kiss-scandal/
Crawford, F. (n.d.). Just the beginning: 7 ways the Women’s World Cup can move the dial on women’s sport forever. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/just-the-beginning-7-ways-the-womens-world-cup-can-move-the-dial-on-womens-sport-forever-210550
Grez, M. (2023, August 19). Spain’s women make history at the Women’s World Cup against a backdrop of turmoil and dispute. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/19/football/womens-world-cup-spain-dispute-jorge-vilda-rfef-spt-intl/index.html
Ronald, I., De La Fuente, H., Sung, P., Sottile, Z., & CNN. (2023, September 11). Luis Rubiales resigns as Spanish soccer president following unwanted kiss with World Cup winner Jennifer Hermoso. CNN.https://edition.cnn.com/2023/09/10/football/luis-rubiales-kiss-resign-football-intl-spt/index.html
About the author:
Alya May Elhassani Elalaoui is currently a second-year student at American University in Washington D.C. She has a great interest in the political world and the judicial system. She is an advocate for gender equality and justice within our society. She currently joined the Politics4her team and is working with the Communications Committee.
