SYDNEY — The Matildas have voiced their strong disapproval following derogatory remarks made by a commercial radio host about Australia’s national women’s soccer team. Over recent days, the Matildas have faced off against formidable opponents like Japan and the United States in the SheBelieves Cup; however, a new challenge emerged off the field when they became the target of an inappropriate diatribe by radio personality Marty Sheargold on Triple M.
During his segment, Sheargold compared the Matildas to high school students, referring to alleged social dramas within the team, and provocatively asked if there were any men’s sports topics to discuss instead. He also referenced Australia’s performance in the 2023 World Cup, seeming to undermine their success despite their noteworthy achievement of reaching the semifinals on home ground.
Australian field hockey player Rosie Malone shared her displeasure on social media by posting an edited version of Sheargold’s comments, describing them as “disgusting” and “horrendous.” Malone expressed concern about young girls who might have heard the broadcast, questioning the impact such remarks could have on impressionable listeners.
In response to Malone’s comments, Matildas players Alex Chidiac and Clare Wheeler also expressed their frustration. Chidiac declared she was “so sick” of such commentary, while Wheeler emphasized that sports should be inclusive, and these kinds of views have no place in sports.
Football Federation Australia released a statement denouncing the remarks, highlighting that they minimize the Matildas’ tremendous achievements and the positive influence they’ve had on Australian sport and society. “The Matildas have inspired a new generation of Australians … who now see a future for themselves in football and sport more broadly,” the statement read. It honored the team for breaking barriers and setting new standards, advocating for them to be covered with the respect they have earned.
Australia’s sports minister, Anika Wells, also criticized the comments with strong words, labeling them as “boorish, boring, wrong.” Likewise, the national players’ union underscored the importance of addressing such ignorance. Professional Footballers Australia’s chief executive, Beau Busch, described the comments as “disgusting” and “deeply misogynistic” and emphasized that the Matildas have inspired many Australians.
Following the backlash, the Triple M network issued a statement clarifying that the comments do not reflect the station’s views or values. Marty Sheargold offered an apology acknowledging that sometimes comedic attempts can miss their mark, and he regretted any offense caused by his comments concerning the Matildas.
