Smashed rackets and broken press conferences: Tennis athletes’ voice in light of new media and immersive technologies (forthcoming)
Authors: Cox, K., Mendis, D. and Nicholson, R.
Journal: Media Culture and Society
Publisher: SAGE
ISSN: 0163-4437
Abstract:This article explores the disruption to the practice of the post-match press conference through the growth of athletes’ reliance on social media and new technologies. We use Gen Z tennis player Naomi Osaka’s refusal to meet press conference obligations during the French Open 2021 as a lens through which to consider the consequences for athlete and press voice. Identifying the incident and the fallout as a potential catalyst for change to the post-match press conference, this paper considers the intergenerational tensions between all parties and the impact caused as a result of social media and new technologies. Drawing on this context, this paper proposes immersive technologies, such as the use of holographic communications platforms, as a means of sculpting future interactions with player and press to transform sports reporting and support participants in the process. Typically, the critical analysis of Osaka has taken an intersectional approach focussing on race, ethnicity and gender. Whilst the authors recognise the importance of a holistic approach, this paper’s emphasis remains on new technologies as a transformative shift and change to the ritual of the post-match press conference.
Source: Manual