Source : ABC NEWS
The Matildas and Japan have joined forces to smash the Asian Football Confederation’s reward money for the Women’s Asian Cup against brutal competitors on the industry.
The Women’s Asian Cup, which has just finished its second-ever edition in Australia, offers$ US 1.8 million ($ 2.62 million ) in prize money. It is the lowest-paying continental tournament in the world.
At the 2022 Women’s Asian Cup, the exact sum was up for grabs.
In contrast, a total prize pool of$ US14.8m ($ 21.54m ) was available for the men’s Asian Cup in 2023, with each nation receiving a participation fee of$ US200, 000 ($ 291, 000 ).
Given that the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup in Australia was likewise a smashing success, the inequality has become a big sore spot for Matildas people and their Asian rivals.
In front of 74, 397 spectators at Stadium Australia in Sydney on March 21, Japan won the title of champions after defeating Australia 1-0.
A report 355, 528 fans showed up to games in Perth, Gold Coast, and Sydney, making the 2026 event the most popular Women’s Asian Cup in history.
However, the prize money was insufficient in comparison to the men’s event.
Players were slowly enthralled by the lower pay, but overwhelmingly chose to remain silent throughout the event so that they could concentrate on achieving on-field success.
A speech on behalf of the Matildas and Chinese people was released on Thursday night to address the lack of prize money and the ongoing injustice. The game is now in the rearview mirror.
The declaration read,” Despite the success of this event, it continues to be the lowest-paying western competition in the world and there is still a gender disparity.”
” To date, the AFC has disregarded our pre-tournament offer to collaborate on similar prize money, a guaranteed discuss for all people, and to co-develop a sustained legacy.”
Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, has earlier pledged equal reward money for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, despite not having anything locked in as of yet.
Given that the tools available to women’s sport in some regions of Asia are still a major challenge, it’s thought that providing potential Women’s Asian Cups may significantly raise standards.
Equal reward wealth would transform all athletes and sports populations in Asia, according to the joint statement from Australia and Japan.
” Similar reward money may help to raise standards across our place at all levels of the game.
” Football benefits people in the short term, but sports gains in the long term.
We anticipate that FIFA will honor its commitment to provide equal prize income for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and we will continue to fight for gender equality and respect for female athletes in our area.
AAP
