Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has weighed in on the controversy surrounding former Triple M radio host Marty Sheargold’s sexist comments about women’s sports.
Sheargold sparked outrage after saying the Matildas reminded him of “year 10 girls” and that he’d “rather hammer a nail” through his penis than watch the Asian Cup.
The Incident That Sparked the Outrage
The comments were made on live radio, and an audio clip was later shared on TikTok by Hockeyroos player Rosie Malone.
Sheargold also made derogatory comments about endometriosis, saying it’s “made up”. His remarks were widely condemned, and he has since parted ways with Triple M.
PM Albanese Speaks Out
When asked about Sheargold’s comments, PM Albanese didn’t hold back. “They were just shocking comments that anyone could think it, let alone say it.
Completely unacceptable,” he told Nova 100’s Jase and Lauren. He praised the Matildas, saying they’re “legends” who have brought the country together.
Women’s Sports Deserve Respect
Albanese emphasized the importance of respecting women’s sports and the incredible achievements of female athletes.
“Women’s and girl’s sport has been a revolution in my lifetime… These are great athletes, like the Matildas, who performed so well to get to the semis in the World Cup.”
He also highlighted the success of female athletes like Ellyse Perry, who is statistically one of the greatest cricketers Australia has produced.
Condemnation from the Sporting Community
Olympic great Cate Campbell also spoke out against Sheargold’s comments, saying they’re “damaging” and “unacceptable”.
She pointed out that women have been fighting for generations to be seen as equals in sport and that they deserve better recognition and respect. Campbell noted that women have been instrumental in Australia’s sporting success, winning 13 out of 18 gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
A Call to Action
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about sexism in sports and the need for greater recognition and respect for female athletes.
As PM Albanese said, “We need to respect each other, and disrespecting more than half the population is not on.” It’s time to give women’s sports the respect and appreciation they deserve.