Men Bet on WNBA Players' Menstrual Cycles, Raising Eyebrows
As the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury face off in the WNBA finals, a peculiar betting trend has emerged among sports enthusiasts. Dozens of online gamblers are making wagers on players' potential performance based on their predictions about menstrual cycles.
According to FadeMeBets, an anonymous figure with thousands of followers on Instagram, his menstrual cycle betting strategy has yielded 68.75 percent accuracy in 16 attempts. "It's kind of good, but also kind of bad," FadeMeBets said, citing the increased viewership as a positive aspect, but lamenting that it often attracts only gamblers.
The phenomenon is not limited to individual players; teams are also being affected. The WNBA has seen a surge in interest, with some games drawing larger crowds than usual. However, this influx of attention comes with concerns about objectification and exploitation.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert acknowledged the issue, stating that "while we appreciate the increased interest in our league, we must ensure that our players are treated with respect and dignity." Engelbert emphasized that the WNBA is committed to promoting a positive and inclusive environment for its athletes.
The betting strategy relies on outdated stereotypes about women's physical abilities during different phases of their menstrual cycles. Proponents argue that it adds an extra layer of excitement to the game, while critics see it as a form of sexism.
WNBA players have spoken out against the trend, with some expressing frustration and others calling for greater awareness about period-related issues. "It's not just about the game; it's about our bodies," said A'ja Wilson, Las Vegas Aces forward. "We're more than just our menstrual cycles."
The WNBA finals are set to conclude on October 10, with the winner facing off against the Eastern Conference champion in the championship series. As the league continues to navigate this unusual betting trend, it remains to be seen how it will impact the future of women's professional basketball.
In related news, the WNBA has announced plans to launch a new initiative promoting menstrual health and education for its players and fans. The move aims to address the underlying issues surrounding period-related betting and promote a more inclusive and respectful environment within the league.
*Reporting by Wired.*
