Marty Sheargold fired after misogynistic remarks about Matildas
- Marty Sheargold made misogynistic comments about the Matildas on a live radio show, sparking widespread outrage.
- His remarks were condemned by players, the governing body of Australian football, and former athletes, highlighting concerns about the treatment of women's sports in media.
- Southern Cross Austereo announced their mutual decision to part ways with Sheargold, reaffirming their commitment to upholding appropriate standards in programming.
In Australia, the radio industry has faced turmoil following controversial comments made by broadcaster Marty Sheargold regarding the national women's football team, the Matildas. During a discussion on his Triple M drive show, Sheargold's remarks drew immediate condemnation as they were perceived to demean female athletes. His comparison of the Matildas to 'year 10 girls' grappling with 'infighting' and 'friendship issues' sparked outrage, especially in the context of their recent performance in the SheBelieves Cup. This tournament saw the Matildas competing against teams like Japan and the United States, further inflaming sentiments around gender equality in sports reporting. The backlash was swift, with prominent figures in women's sports condemning Sheargold's comments publicly. Rosie Malone, a former field hockey player, highlighted the potential negative impact on young girls who might have been listening. Players from the Matildas, including Alex Chidiac and Claire Wheeler, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that such views do not belong in sports discourse. In response to the ongoing outrage, Southern Cross Austereo, the parent company of Triple M, decided to part ways with Sheargold. They acknowledged that his comments did not align with the network's values and standards. The organization's statement indicated a commitment to ensuring that their programming reflects respect and professionalism, particularly in relation to women's sports. Sheargold, for his part, issued an apology, expressing regret for his comments and recognizing the hurt they caused. This incident highlights the delicate balance that broadcasters must maintain in their commentary, especially as discussions about female representation in sports continue to gain momentum in public discourse. As the Matildas prepare for future competitions, the expectation for respectful and informed commentary around women's sports remains paramount.