Tamerra Griffin, a freelance sports reporter, joins Scaachi Koul to discuss a forced kiss incident in women's soccer. They analyze the significance of the incident, protests against Luis Rubio, struggles faced by Spanish women footballers, sexism in women's soccer, and moments of solidarity. They also explore power dynamics and the intersection of sports and style, highlighting the influence of Flojo.
The incident of the forced kiss on the Spanish Women's World Cup team sheds light on workplace sexual assault, power dynamics, and the need for change in women's soccer.
Sexism and mistreatment persist in Spanish women's soccer, highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality and fair treatment in the sport.
Deep dives
The Spanish Women's World Cup Victory and Workplace Sexual Assault
The Spanish Women's World Cup team's victory is overshadowed by workplace sexual assault allegations. After winning the championship, the team's boss, Luis Rubio, forcibly kissed midfielder Jennifer Hermoso, who clearly did not consent. The team is now refusing to play until Rubio is removed from the Spanish football federation. This incident sheds light on the power dynamics and sexism prevalent in women's soccer and the need for change.
Sexism in Spanish Women's Soccer
Sexism is prevalent in Spanish women's soccer, with players facing disparities and mistreatment compared to their male counterparts. The Spanish women's national team has been in a long-standing dispute with the Spanish football federation, including allegations of toxic behaviors by the head coach and poor treatment of players. The players have demanded a more professional environment and equal treatment. This clash highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality and fair treatment in women's soccer.
Expressing Individuality in Sports
Athletes find ways to express their individuality and values within the confines of team uniforms. The story of Ali Riley, a New Zealand soccer player, demonstrates creative expression through her nails. Due to FIFA regulations, she was unable to wear a rainbow-colored armband as a captain, so she brought the pride flag and the trans flag to her nails. This act of protest exemplifies how athletes use fashion and personal style to communicate their values and make a statement on a global stage.
On this week’s episode of The Waves, we’re talking about The Kiss. Scaachi Koul is joined by Women’s World Cup reporter for The Athletic and freelance sports reporter, Tamerra Griffin to talk about Spanish Soccer President, Luis Rubiales forcibly kissing player Jennifer Hermoso after Spain’s FIFA Women’s World Cup final win. They dig into the internal strife that was already going on within the Spanish team, Rubiales’s history of alleged misconduct, where the sport can go from here, and more.
Podcast production by Cheyna Roth with editorial oversight by Scaachi Koul, Daisy Rosario and Alicia Montgomery.
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