#12: World Cup LGBTQ Representation
It is encouraging and ground-breaking to have so many LGBTQ athletes competing in the 2023 Women’s World Cup. With a record 87 out athletes, up from 38 in 2019, this signifies not just a numeric increase but a cultural shift toward acceptance and inclusivity in sports.
While the 2021 Summer Olympics saw about 1.6% of its athletes openly identifying as LGBTQ, the Women’s World Cup boasts a remarkable 11.8%. Brazil leads with 9 out of 23 players, emphasizing global progress. As sports continue to be a mirror to societal attitudes, such milestones underscore the importance of visibility and the power of courage in fostering change.