Why are women still having to fight so hard for their rightful place in the male-dominated sporting world?

Ideas about who belongs – and who does not – do not stay in the sport space; they leach out and influence ideas about ‘natural’ ability and interest in broader society, says Victoria Jackson.

Thursday 07 February 2019 14:04 GMT
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England's women footballers have enjoyed success but don’t get the plaudits they deserve
England's women footballers have enjoyed success but don’t get the plaudits they deserve

Last Sunday, when Manchester City hosted Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, defeating the Gunners 3-1, I was there.

It was my first in-person Premier League viewing experience, in the birthplace of professional football, on the same day as my country’s professional football championship. (I agree that your game is the world’s game; never mind that our “Super Bowl” winners declare themselves “world champions.”)

The “firsts” did not end there. It was my first match outside the United States; my first trip to Manchester; even my first press pass. (I’m an academic.)

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