Is it defensible for women to play fewer sets than men in grand slam tennis?. Issue 3 (2nd September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Davis, Paul; Edwards, Lisa
• Is Part Of: Journal of the philosophy of sport. Volume 44:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 388
• Page End: 407
• Publication Date: 2017-09-02
• Subjects: Tennis -- sets -- feminism -- injustice -- ideology; Sports -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 796.01
• DOI: 10.1080/00948705.2017.1380950
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0094-8705

Abstract

Abstract: Lacking in the philosophy of sport is discussion of the gendered numbers of sets played in Grand Slam tennis. We argue that the practice is indefensible. It can be upheld only through false beliefs about women or repressive femininity ideals. It treats male tennis players unfairly in forcing them to play more sets because of their sex. Its ideological consequences are pernicious, since it reinforces the respective identifications of the female and male with physical limitation and heroism. Both sexes have compelling reason to reject the practice.