South Africa has made remarkable strides in recent years in promoting women in sport across TV, radio, and digital platforms. However, there is still considerable progress to be made before achieving gender equality, especially when compared to global trends.
Looking back, we can think of pioneers like Tinky Pringle, Cynthia Chaka, Carol Tshabalala, Lebo Motsoeli and Romy Titus, these names were synonymous with sport, and represented the leading women in the field that we saw on mainstream media.
In addition, there were many other trailblazers in radio and behind-the-scenes roles. Growing up, these trailblazers were the ones many of us were exposed to.
Fast forward to 2025, and there are countless women across all platforms in South Africa, including young trendsetters and groundbreakers on social media, where the representation of women in sport looks particularly promising.
SABC, SuperSport, eNCA, and Newsroom Afrika have been at the forefront of integrating women into sports media. SABC boasts figures like gsport Award-winner Vusiwe Ngcobo, a lead anchor for major football matches and the face of sports on Morning Live, alongside Xoli Zondo and Zai Khan, who anchor sports news on SABC News.
Zondo and Khan are part of a larger team of women on radio at the public broadcaster, including Tumi Nkgapele and Nthabi Mamabolo.
At Primedia, women like Cindy Poluta and Tholakele Mnganga anchor prime-time slots on 702 and 947.
SuperSport has also been a major player in championing women in sports media, with figures such as Carol Tshabalala and Julia Stuart—who now anchors Premier League matches, arguably the most prestigious football league in the world.
Other prominent names at SuperSport include Thato Moeng, Lesego Pooe, Cato Low, Lerato Phago, and Mbali Sigidi. These talented broadcasters demonstrate that quality sports broadcasting is not limited to men.
Social media has also played an essential role in empowering many women to attract mass attention to sports, often without working in the formal broadcast sector as a primary focus. Influential voices like Aunty Diski, Naledi Aphane, and Zenande Funani have carved out successful careers which began as side-hustles, leading to their building credible reputations in sports media.
While digital and broadcast platforms have seen an increase in female sports voices, print media has lagged behind. Growth has been slower in this area. Women the likes of Lethabo Kganyago, Karien Jonckheere and Lynn Butler are among the few names in the bylines of sports articles.
Football has been more open to female talent, but traditional male-dominated sports like rugby and cricket still see fewer female presenters and analysts. However, again SuperSport has a main Rugby anchor Motshidisi Mohono who’s done exceptional work anchoring Rugby World Cup finals. Further proof that the intention to advance women in sport in broadcasting is there.
Global Comparison
Globally, women in sports media continue to struggle for equal representation. According to the Global Media Monitoring Project (GMMP), women make up only 13% of sports media coverage worldwide, though this figure is slowly improving. Countries such as the UK, Australia, and the US have more visible female sports broadcasters, with women having a stronger presence on major networks like BBC Sport, ESPN, and Fox Sports. South Africa is gradually catching up.
Closing the Gap: Equal Pay and Recognition
Women in sports media often face significant pay disparities compared to their male counterparts. Addressing equal pay should be a priority to encourage more women to enter and remain in the industry. Recognition is also crucial—acknowledging female sports broadcasters, reporters, and analysts for their contributions through awards or public recognition helps elevate their status and solidify their roles in the industry.
Closing the Gap: Supportive Media Platforms
Broadcasters should continue expanding the diversity of voices in sports journalism. For instance, the rise of podcasts and online shows dedicated to sports—particularly those led by women—has been encouraging. However, these platforms need amplification by traditional networks to reach larger audiences. Media houses should ensure that their editorial teams reflect gender equality in content creation, striking a balance in coverage of both men’s and women’s sports.
Closing the Gap: Role Models and Visibility
Having visible female role models in sports broadcasting is essential for inspiring younger generations to pursue careers in the field. The more successful female broadcasters we see, the more likely it is that younger talent will feel empowered to follow in their footsteps.
South Africa is making significant progress in terms of female representation in sports media, but there is still much work to be done. By improving access, promoting diversity, investing in mentorship, creating more opportunities for women’s sports coverage, and fostering a culture of equality, South Africa can close the gender gap in sports media.
It’s not just about getting women on screen—it’s about creating a holistic environment that supports and encourages their growth in the industry.
Main Photo Caption: Women’s professional participation is on the increase in South African sports television and radio broadcasting by improving access, promoting diversity, investing in mentorship, but much work remains to be done. All Stock Photos: Envato Elements
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