Perspective of female athletes about the development challenges in sports

Abstract

In this study, the researcher's main purpose was to highlight the perspective of female athletes about the challenges they face in the sports field by investigating the challenges they face in their careers. Then, determine the most dominant factor influencing the sports field of Pakistan based on the effects of internal and external factors. In this study, we discussed the challenges faced by female athletes in the development process, so sustainable development goals were used in this study to highlight the gender disparity. To understand the challenges and their perspectives on challenges faced in sports, the researchers used two research questions. An understanding of the development challenges faced by female athletes was made with a social-ecological model. In this study, data were collected from 15 professional women athletes participating in an international forum. Qualitative research was conducted and in-depth interviews were conducted. Through thematic analysis, further analysis of the theme was conducted. A manual analysis of themes was conducted. According to this study, challenges faced by female athletes in sports are connected to a social-ecological model. Study findings include lack of media coverage, dress code, cultural barriers, lack of sponsorship and gender discrimination. It was concluded that female athletes face discrimination in male dominated societies and they depend on their families. In the sports field, the key limiting factor is the dress code. While male coaches are in abundance, there are fewer female coaches. There are weak administrative and institutional structures. Proper facilitation and enhancement of participation of women in sports are needed by the government. Consequently, female athletes will be represented more at the Olympics.