The article examines how intersections of race, gender, and sexuality shape the media portrayal of athletes, noting that Black athletes are often characterized by their athleticism while white athletes are celebrated for their intellectual capabilities. Female athletes face sexualization and passive representation, particularly if they appear traditionally feminine. The WNBA has transitioned towards more queer inclusion, largely facilitated by platforms like TikTok, where new narratives about female athletes are emerging. TikTok edits highlight both athleticism and personal life, offering content often ignored by mainstream media.
Historically, mainstream media have portrayed athletes differently based on intersections of race, gender, and sexuality, creating distinct perceptions of Black versus white athletes.
Female athletes are often displayed in sexualized poses, minimizing their athletic contributions, particularly when they conform to heterosexual and feminine stereotypes.
Preliminary research suggests that TikTok activity indicates evolving media discourse surrounding female athletes, highlighting both established and emerging narratives within content creation.
TikTok 'edits' of women’s basketball players provide a unique lens into fan engagement, showcasing highlights and personal moments, often unnoticed by mainstream media.
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