Javier Chicharito faces backlash over sexist comments made online
- Javier Chicharito Hernandez has faced backlash from public figures and organizations for sexist remarks made on social media.
- President Claudia Sheinbaum and the Gender and Diversity Commission of the Mexican Soccer Federation have condemned his comments.
- His remarks have raised significant discussions about sexism in sports and led to financial penalties from the federation and his club.
In Mexico, soccer star Javier Chicharito Hernandez, known for his impressive career as the all-time leading scorer for the Mexican national team, recently faced significant backlash for controversial remarks he made on social media concerning gender roles. Following his posts, which included statements suggesting women should allow themselves to be led by men and that they need to accept masculinity, reactions from various public figures and organizations were swift and condemnatory. President Claudia Sheinbaum was notably vocal, labeling his ideas as 'very sexist' and emphasizing the capacity of women to be leaders and multifaceted individuals. Chicharito's comments came during a time when he is injured and unable to participate in the first matches of Mexico's Apertura tournament. His social media posts, which included several videos primarily on Instagram, sparked outrage not only among fans but also within institutional spheres, leading to direct consequences for the player. Shortly after Sheinbaum's rebuttal, the Gender and Diversity Commission of the Mexican Soccer Federation imposed a fine on Hernandez, marking a significant moment as it was the first time a player has been penalized for sexist comments within the sport's context in Mexico. Additionally, the Chivas club, where Hernandez has returned to play, reinforced its stance against behaviors reinforcing stereotypes that restrict freedom and respect, although they did not name him specifically in their announcements. Critics have emphasized that Chicharito should focus more on soccer performance, especially considering his lackluster return to the league, where he has only managed two goals in his first 25 games back. The discourse surrounding Hernandez's remarks raises larger questions about gender perceptions in sports and society, highlighting the ongoing struggles against entrenched stereotypes. As a divorced father of two, Chicharito's public persona, shaped recently by life coach Diego Dreyfus, is under scrutiny, especially given how his recent comments reflect a broader issue of sexism within sports culture in Mexico and beyond.