A presenter from one of Australia’s largest radio networks has apologized after his comments about the national women’s football team sparked outrage. Marty Sheargold, a host on Triple M, made remarks during his drivetime show that many described as misogynistic and disrespectful.
Sheargold compared the Matildas players to “year 10 girls,” implying that their matches were boring and filled with infighting. His comments were condemned by Football Australia, which called them “unacceptable” and “deeply disappointing.” The organization also emphasized that Sheargold’s remarks “diminish the extraordinary achievements” of the team, which reached the semi-finals of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
On Wednesday, Sheargold issued an apology, acknowledging that his comments might have offended listeners. He stated, “Any comedy, including mine, can miss the mark sometimes, and I can see why people may have taken offence to my comments regarding the Matildas. I sincerely apologise.” It is understood that Sheargold will address the controversy further on air.
The comments were made on Monday afternoon during a sports bulletin on Sheargold’s show. After discussing Australia’s defeat to the US in the SheBelieves Cup, Sheargold interjected with a comment about the Matildas, saying: “You know what they remind me of? Year 10 girls… All the infighting and all the friendship issues… Now I’m sorry to undermine the whole sport, but that’s what I think of it.” His co-hosts laughed at the remark, and Sheargold continued to make disparaging comments about women’s football, including criticizing the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup and belittling the SheBelieves Cup.
Southern Cross Austereo, Triple M’s parent company, quickly distanced itself from Sheargold’s comments, stating that they did not align with the network’s values. “We are sorry for any offence caused,” the company said.
The remarks have drawn strong reactions from several figures. Minister for Sport Anika Wells labeled Sheargold’s comments as “boorish, boring and wrong,” while Australian Olympian Ambrosia Malone expressed disbelief over the impact the remarks might have on young girls aspiring to play sports.
Football Australia also used the incident to highlight the responsibility media outlets and personalities have in fostering respectful conversations about women’s sports. “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,” the organization said.
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