Gender in Professional Football: Unveiling Stereotypes and Sport Performance Variabilities in Recent 2022 and 2023 World Cups.

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to interrogate the gendered stereotypes and perceived performance differences in professional football, utilizing data from the recent FIFA World Cups (Qatar 2022 and Australia & New Zealand 2023). A comprehensive analysis of 141 variables, encompassing various facets of gameplay, was undertaken to determine whether gender-based disparities in performance actually exist. The key focus was identifying variables showing no significant gender differences or where women's performance surpassed that of men. Surprisingly, over half of the variables, including goals scored, assists, shots on target, and passing distances, displayed no significant gender variance. Furthermore, women exhibited superior performance in 28% of the analysed variables, notably in precision and successful completion rates of various types of passes, indicating a higher efficiency in certain game aspects. These findings challenge the entrenched stereotypes within the sport, suggesting that gender differences in football performance are not as pronounced as commonly believed and highlighting the need for a fair and equitable appreciation of sporting talent across genders.