Perception of Women in Sports in Türkiye in the 21st Century

The primary objective of this study is to examine perceptions of women in sports through the insights of male and female stakeholders at various levels of the Turkish sports ecosystem from the 2000s to the present. This study employed a phenomenology-based qualitative research approach and was supported by a case study design. Data collection was conducted through personal information forms and semi-structured interview questions. The study group consisted of 20 volunteers, selected via purposive sampling, representing diverse roles, including administrators, academics, coaches, athletes, and referees. Data obtained from audio recordings were analyzed using descriptive methods. To ensure reliability, the data were coded independently by three expert researchers, and themes corresponding to the research questions were established. Codes regarding participants' general perceptions of women were grouped under the theme of “cultural situations”, while views specifically addressing women in sports were categorized under the themes of “cultural contexts”, “women’s individual gains,” and “sport-specific conditions for women.” Research findings indicate that in 21st-century Türkiye, the perception of women varies significantly by region, with women occasionally being viewed as second-class citizens and subjected to various inequalities. Within the sporting context, however, the prevailing view is that differences between men and women are purely biological and that both genders are otherwise equal. The findings also highlight that while the number of female sports scientists and athletes exceeds that of female administrators and referees, female representation remains insufficient across all sports-related roles. Consequently, participants emphasized the need for greater institutional support for women. In conclusion, the study underscores the vital importance of women across all facets of sports, demonstrating a strong consensus that their presence is crucial to overcoming systemic challenges.