The sports world is in the middle of uncertain times. Politics have inched closer into the spotlight of American sports and has affected how many view the games. Mental and physical health are now at the forefront of most press conferences, leading many to question how we view athletes. The worldwide pandemic shifted the focus and landscape of sports activism. A very vocal and heated topic in the world right now, the fallout could lead to the loss of jobs, sponsorships, and other opportunities. Former ex-NBA player, Andrew Bogut, is hoping to encourage other big-name athletes to speak up and let their voices be heard.
The Australian native Andrew Bogut took to social media last weekend to protest the recent lockdowns and COVID-19 guidelines happening around the world, especially in his home country. In his 11-minute rant, posted on Instagram live, Andrew Bogut went after everyone from world leaders to social media influencers. With massive platforms, Bogut criticized the elite for trying to silence people who are speaking up.
“Athletes that are on contract in our biggest leagues in Australia, AFL, NRL have been told not to make anti-lockdown, anti-government statements on social media, period,” he claimed.
“That’s why these people aren’t batting for you.”
He added: “But you athletes and you influencers that have all these sponsors and marketers behind you pushing promos to the plebs that buy your s**t, where’s your voice? Why aren’t any of you speaking up?”
Andrew Bogut also took aim at major athletes who are sponsored by the likes of Nike, Adidas, and such others as being the “privilege state of mind.” Athletes usually are not well outspoken when it comes to going against a major corporation. With so much money being invested in these players, it’s not hard to see why they are quiet.
“The very people that buy your fucking deodorants and your moisturizers and your candles and your Nike shoes, whatever it is — the very people that buy that are the ones that are most affected by this shit.”
Andrew also touched on the mindset of many fans left wondering who do they turn to in their time of need, if not their role models? He believes many athletes are scared of losing their contracts more than their love for their fans.
“For those of you out there scratching your head in these tough times thinking, ‘Where are all these people, these influencers, these sports stars that I’ve supported with my minimum wage or middle-class wage, buying jerseys for my kids and tickets — where are these people? Why can’t they go in to bat for me?’ That’s your reason.”
Since the pandemic began, Andrew Bogut has been outspoken about the treatment of lower-class citizens from the 1% in the world. Recently, he spoke out about how various companies have offered him money to encourage fans to stay at home and wear masks. The former Golden State Warriors Center also touched on the protests breaking out around the world against masks mandate. At the end of the day, everyone should work together to combat this worldwide crisis.
