Football Australia is deeply disappointed by the unacceptable comments made by Marty Sheargold on Triple M regarding the CommBank Matildas. Such remarks not only diminish the extraordinary achievements and contributions of our women's national football team but also fail to recognise the profound impact they have had on Australian sport and society.
The CommBank Matildas have inspired a new generation of Australians from young boys and girls to men and women who now see a future for themselves in football and sport more broadly. They have broken barriers, set new standards, and elevated the game to unprecedented heights. Their success has been instrumental in transforming women's sport in Australia, and they deserve to be covered with the respect and professionalism they have earned.
While we acknowledge the apologies issued by both Triple M and Marty Sheargold, this incident is a stark reminder of the responsibility media outlets and personalities have in fostering respectful and constructive discussions about women's sport and its participants. Every comment, every report, and every discussion shape public perception and reinforces our society's values toward women and girls in sport.
It is imperative that all media outlets and commentators uphold a standard of respect that reflects the immense contribution of the CommBank Matildas and all female athletes to our sporting culture and Australian story. All female athletes deserve to be covered with the same level of professionalism and respect afforded to their male counterparts.
With just 12 months to go until Australia hosts the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026™, we look forward to building on the incredible story of the CommBank Matildas and continuing to elevate women's football. This tournament will provide another platform to showcase women's football and further inspire future generations.
Football Australia remains steadfast in its commitment to equality, diversity, and ensuring that the next generation of women and girls in football see a sport that values and respects them.
We appreciate the swift response from Southern Cross Austereo and hope this leads to meaningful conversations about the role of media in shaping public perceptions of women's football and women's sport in general.
