Criticism is almost taboo when covering women’s sports. Should it be?
Comment: Are we protecting women’s sports by shielding them from criticism, or are we actively hindering their growth?
Finding the right balance is notoriously difficult, especially when unfair, bad-faith commentary is never far away.
Game Face looper nine.com.au
We’ve all heard the tired tropes: it’s too slow, too boring, too easy, too different.
Yet, beneath the noise, true progress relies on constructive criticism from fans, athletes and sponsors alike.
Shining a glaring light on the fixable aspects of the game is precisely what drives investment and progression in the areas that need it most - be it merchandise availability, stadium quality or equitable fixtures.
Which brings us to the question, are we allowed to critique the game? And without external context.
“Context” is the sticking point here. While understanding the historical and systemic context of women’s sports is vital, we rarely apply these same protective caveats when tearing apart a mens team’s performance.
In two recent examples, the Australian Diamonds and the Jillaroos have copped flack for very different reasons.
As the Diamonds went close to losing the world No.1 ranking they’ve held since 2013 in a 3-1 Constellation Cup series loss, it was hard not to find fault with their performance.
“Ill-disciplined” games with too many penalties conceded and a lack of vigour from key players ensured the Australian side is coming into the Netball World Cup as hosts on the back foot.
So what do we achieve shielding the team away from this reality?
Not much, honestly. Instead, we should be pushing them to dig out of this slump with fire in their bellies.
Genuine critique is a sign of respect, it acknowledges their capability for greatness.
The 2026 Constellation Cup series has been a disaster for Australia. Getty Images
At the same time, we must recognise that rival nations catching up to the undisputed heavyweights is a milestone worth celebrating.
As more competitors step onto an even playing field, this upward mobility from historically under-resourced nations is exactly what the sport needs to grow globally.
We are seeing a glimpse of this evolution in the Rugby League World Cup.
However, for the Jillaroos and the tournament at large, it is the vast scoreline blowouts that have dominated the current critique.
It proves once again that as women’s sports evolve, the maturity of our conversations around them must evolve too.
