The Paris Olympics have ignited controversy over the attire of women’s beach volleyball players following a recent rule change that permits leggings instead of the traditional bikini bottoms. This shift has sparked a significant backlash from some viewers, with many expressing their discontent on social media.
Traditionally, women’s beach volleyball players were required to wear bikini bottoms with a maximum side width of 7 centimeters. This standard, enforced by the International Olympic Committee, ensured that the uniforms were highly revealing. However, the Paris Olympics introduced a new rule allowing athletes to wear more modest leggings, which has led to a flurry of reactions online.
Many social media users have expressed their dissatisfaction, with some comments revealing a sexist undertone. One viewer criticized the change by saying, “So I’ve had to watch blokes dressed as women at the opening ceremony and now women wearing leggings in beach volleyball. Worst Olympics ever,” while another complained, “Leggings in beach volleyball is a god d*** crime.” Critics argue that such reactions are more about objectifying female athletes than genuine concern over the uniform change.
On the other hand, some people have defended the rule change, citing practical benefits. For example, athletes from the Czech Republic have embraced the new leggings due to the unexpectedly chilly Parisian summer weather. An observer noted, “The weather is miserable, and it may also be simply because it’s China and there is more cultural modesty,” pointing out how local climate and cultural norms influence attire choices.
Supporters of the change argue that the previous bikini bottoms were not only uncomfortable but also impractical. Female athletes had previously voiced concerns that the tiny bottoms could be distracting and prone to exposure during play. As one Reddit user noted, “Female volleyball players have talked at length about how those tiny bikini bottoms are distractions for them because they are constantly at risk of flying off when they dive into the sand. I’m shocked that leggings aren’t the standard.”
Critics have suggested that the move towards more modest clothing might be part of a broader effort to combat the objectification of female athletes. For instance, the Egyptian women’s beach volleyball team wore full sleeves, long pants, and hijabs, reflecting the cultural and religious norms of their predominantly Sunni Muslim population.
The debate has also highlighted inconsistencies in uniform choices among teams. While some nations, like Egypt, have opted for full coverage, others, such as the United States, have continued to use the traditional bikini bottoms despite the unseasonably cold weather in Paris.
Overall, this controversy underscores the ongoing struggle between tradition, practicality, and respect for athletes’ comfort and cultural preferences. As the Paris Olympics progress, the discussion around beach volleyball uniforms continues to be a focal point of both support and criticism.