While the sporting world is in turmoil and eagerly awaiting the Women’s World Cup final this Sunday, August 20, 2023, it is essential to understand that this is not just a sporting match between two exceptional teams. It is in reality the result of a fierce struggle, embodied by generations of women, trying to earn their place and be recognized for their talent and determination on the big stage of international football.
The build-up to this final, although now highly anticipated and publicized, began in the darkness of prejudices and challenges for women’s football. Long relegated to the background, faced with outdated stereotypes and indifference, female footballers have overcome these pitfalls with tenacity.
Historically, the media world, obsessed with male performance on the field, has often overshadowed the performance of women. However, at the beginning of the 20th century, voices were raised against the idea that football was a man’s affair. England, considered the pioneers of women’s football, witnessed these early challenges. The beginnings, while courageous, were not without controversy, as the “Dunfermline Journal” documented.
It is crucial to recognize that women’s football transcends mere sport: it has become a symbol of feminist struggle and expression. Iconic figures like Olympe de Gouges, beheaded for her boldness in demanding equality for women, to modern icons like Simone de Beauvoir and the suffragettes, have all helped shape this history.
The First World War, as a result of the mobilization of men, left a void for women to fill. They are present in factories and have also taken over football fields. In England, this movement led to the formation of more than 150 teams between 1915 and 1918. However, this momentum was abruptly interrupted in 1921 by the ban on women’s football.
The situation in France followed a parallel trajectory. In the 1930s, some thought football was absurd for women. But 1971 marked a turning point with the official recognition of women’s football, followed twenty years later by international competitions.
We should celebrate these pioneering teams and players, such as the Preston club of 1937 or the British Ladies’ FC of 1894, founded thanks to Nettie Honeyball.
Although significant progress has been made, disparities, especially in pay, persist. Star players like Ada Hegerberg earn a small portion of what their male counterparts receive.
Today, as we enter a new era for women’s football, let’s celebrate the courage and determination of these women who pushed the boundaries to live their passion and light up our world.
by Hassan Yasmin
Author, writer
