The biggest challenge for women pursuing a career in professional sports remains deeply rooted gender bias and societal expectations regarding their roles in the family. The stereotype that women are “too delicate” for athletic pursuits still lingers in many corners.

Looking back at the trajectory of Vietnamese sports and its international integration, it’s evident that female athletes have matched - or even surpassed - the achievements of their male counterparts in several disciplines.

Take football, for instance: while the men’s national team ranks 109th globally and has never qualified for the World Cup, the women’s team is ranked 37th, has long dominated regional tournaments, and made their World Cup debut in 2023.

However, even those women who manage to defy social prejudices and become professional athletes often face disadvantages compared to their male peers.

They carry the additional burden of family responsibilities, shorter career spans, and lack of sufficient attention or investment.

International statistics reveal that up to 60% of female athletes face career difficulties upon retirement, and 70% do not have long-term financial planning - many struggle to make ends meet once they stop competing.

In recent years, gender inequality in Vietnamese sports has gradually narrowed. Society is increasingly recognizing the exceptional contributions of female athletes like Nguyen Thi Anh Vien (swimming), Nguyen Thuy Linh (badminton), Nguyen Thi Huyen (athletics), and Huynh Nhu (football). Still, more concrete efforts are needed to ensure these athletes receive the recognition and benefits they deserve.

These issues were central to a recent forum titled “Sports and Women in the Era of Transformation Towards Sustainable Development.”

Speaking at the event, Tran Thuy Chi, Chairwoman of the Board at Vietcontent - a sports broadcasting and licensing company - proposed a post-retirement support model for female athletes.

It includes three potential career pathways: joining the sports media and entertainment industry, becoming entrepreneurs or managers in the field, or serving as policy advisors.

To turn these ideas into reality, she emphasized the need for educational support, vocational transition programs, partnerships with universities, and gender-neutral recruitment environments.

In this new era, the role of women in society - and particularly in sports - is becoming increasingly vital. Providing greater support will not only allow them to pursue their passions but will also contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable sports industry.

PV