A Triple M radio host has been compelled to issue a public apology following a backlash over derogatory comments made on air regarding the Matildas, Australia’s national women’s football team. The remarks sparked widespread criticism, prompting an urgent response from various stakeholders in the sporting community.

Marty Sheargold, the host of his self-titled show, made an outrageous statement during a live segment on Monday, expressing his extreme distaste for watching the Matildas compete in the upcoming Asian Cup. He went so far as to say he “would rather hammer a nail through the head of [his] penis” than witness their performance, which many found to be in poor taste and highly offensive.

Following the incident, Football Australia expressed their profound disappointment, labeling Sheargold’s comments as “unacceptable” and underscoring the need for more responsible and respectful reporting on women’s sports. This situation highlights the continuing challenges faced by female athletes in gaining respect and recognition in the sports media landscape.

Sheargold’s controversial remarks occurred during a discussion with co-hosts Troy Ellis and Will Ralston, where they were analyzing the Matildas’ recent struggles in the SheBelieves Cup. Despite the team’s commendable performance in the 2023 World Cup, where they reached the semifinals, Sheargold dismissed their achievements, suggesting that internal issues and drama resembled the behavior of “Year 10 girls.”

He remarked, “There’s something wrong with the Matildas. They had that wonderful tournament out here where we all fell in love with them, even though they didn’t make the quarters.” This comment seemed to trivialize the success of the Matildas, who have made significant strides in international football and have been pivotal in promoting women’s sports in Australia.

During the segment, Sheargold went on to question the validity of the SheBelieves Cup, sarcastically asking, “she believes in what? It better be men.” Such statements not only reflect a dismissive attitude towards women’s sports but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes that undermine the achievements of female athletes. His closing remark, “got any men’s sport?” further exemplified his disregard for the women’s game.

Despite the laughter from his co-hosts, the segment triggered numerous complaints directed at Triple M after it aired. Former Hockeyroo Rosie Malone shared an edited clip of Sheargold’s comments on Instagram, amplifying the outrage and highlighting the need for accountability in sports commentary.

In her post, Malone expressed her disgust at the aired comments, noting how disturbing it is that such statements are broadcast during prime time. She highlighted the impact on young girls who might have been listening, stating, “I heard this on the radio yesterday in prime time (5:30pm) on the way to training, and all I could think about was the young girls sitting in the car with their parents.” This underscores the importance of responsible media discourse, especially regarding topics that influence young minds.

Malone’s post garnered responses from prominent figures in women’s sports, including Diamonds netballers Gretel Bueta and Bianca Chatfield, as well as Olympian Libby Trickett, who expressed her outrage. Their reactions illustrate the solidarity among female athletes in addressing disrespectful commentary in media.

In a formal statement, Football Australia condemned Sheargold’s remarks, asserting that they “not only diminish the extraordinary achievements and contributions of our women’s national football team but also fail to recognize the profound impact they have had on Australian sport and society.” This statement emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in how women’s sports are perceived and discussed.

The organization further highlighted that all media outlets and commentators must uphold a standard of respect that reflects the significant contributions of the Matildas and all female athletes. They stressed that women deserve the same level of professionalism and respect afforded to male athletes, reinforcing the call for equity in sports media coverage.

While acknowledging the apologies issued by both Triple M and Marty Sheargold, the statement from Football Australia serves as a reminder of the responsibility that media figures hold in fostering respectful dialogue about women’s sports. Every comment and report shapes public perception and influences societal values toward women and girls in sports.

In response to the backlash, both Sheargold and Triple M issued apologies on Wednesday morning. Sheargold admitted that while he often employs humor in his commentary, he recognized that his remarks regarding the Matildas were offensive to many. He expressed genuine remorse, stating, “Any comedy including mine can miss the mark sometimes, and I can see why people may have taken offence at my comments regarding the Matildas. I sincerely apologise.”

Triple M also issued a statement of apology, clarifying that “Marty Sheargold’s comments regarding the Matildas made on Triple M Drive do not align with Triple M’s views and values, and Triple M remains steadfast in its strong support of all women’s and men’s sports.” This indicates a corporate responsibility toward promoting equality in sports coverage.

Previously, Sheargold took time off from broadcasting after facing scrutiny over an incident during the 2023 AFL grand final, citing the need to address his mental health. He returned to the airwaves, emphasizing the importance of reducing stigma around mental health issues. However, he has faced further criticism, including allegations of making antisemitic comments on-air in March 2024, which raises ongoing concerns about his appropriateness as a commentator.

In addition to his radio work, Sheargold has also appeared in the ABC TV comedy Fisk, showcasing his versatility as a performer. Nevertheless, the recent events surrounding his comments regarding the Matildas have reignited discussions about the treatment of women’s sports in media and the need for greater accountability from public figures.