By Jordan McDonald
Are Australians in a long-term relationship with the Matildas or is it a short-lived fling?
In the world of sports, few events grip a nation like a thrilling tournament on the global stage. Australia’s women’s soccer team united the nation with their 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign and created a new chapter for women’s sport. But despite the Matildas' success, audiences still aren’t sure how their attitudes towards women’s sport connect to Australia’s identity.
As the record numbers of viewers tuned in to support the Matildas, Australians’ appreciation for women’s sport became clearer. A survey following the World Cup confirmed this sentiment. Most Australians support equal development opportunities for male and female players and pay equality.
But even though people want to support the progression of women’s sport, their interest in watching it doesn’t match. The survey shows fewer Australians are more interested in watching women’s sport after the success of the Matildas. So why believe in equality but not show more interest?
The answer might exist in the context of Australian identity. For years, sports have been at the core of our culture and most of our celebrated athletes are male. It’s likely our sporting history still influences our beliefs even as we intentionally change them.
Hosting the women's World Cup was a big nudge for change. But changing how we really think takes time. Although many of us loved watching the Matildas' games and felt proud, we might still like the old sports heroes more. We need more than one event to get people interested in watching women’s sport.
Australia's love for the Matildas and the growing support for fairness in sports show change is happening. The momentum created by the Matildas performance in the World Cup won’t last forever so the challenge now rests with soccer to make the most of the interest.