Syed Talib
Updated on: October 12, 2024 3:21 am GMT
Alisha Lehmann, a prominent figure in women’s football, has opened up about the stark pay disparity between her and her boyfriend Douglas Luiz, highlighting an ongoing issue in the sport. The couple recently made headlines as the first-ever boyfriend and girlfriend to transfer simultaneously to a top club, Juventus, from Aston Villa. While Luiz signed a lucrative contract reportedly worth around £100,000 a week, Lehmann, who followed him to Turin, earns significantly less, raising questions about wage equality in football.
The Pay Gap In Focus
In an exclusive interview with *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, the 25-year-old Swiss footballer addressed the serious issue of financial inequality in the sport. Lehmann expressed her frustration regarding the pay gap, stating, “We do the same job, but he gets paid a hundred times more than me.” This comment underscores a broader concern about how female athletes are compensated compared to their male counterparts.
Lehmann’s earnings are reported to be approximately £200,000 a year, which pales in comparison to Luiz’s impressive contract, illustrating the systemic challenges faced by female players in securing equal pay. She further elaborated on the subject, noting, “Everyone would like to have the same salary,” emphasizing that the movement toward equality in sports requires considerable effort and commitment.
Living the Everyday Life
Despite her fame—boasting over 17 million followers on Instagram—Lehmann insists that her lifestyle is quite ordinary. “I don’t live like a star, but like everyone else,” she said. This transparency resonates with many fans who may perceive her as living a glamorous life based on her social media presence. She added that she engages in everyday activities, such as cooking and running errands, just like anyone else.
This authenticity sheds light on the disconnect that can exist between a celebrity athlete’s public image and their private life. Lehmann’s candid remarks challenge stereotypes and illustrate that fame does not necessarily equate to wealth.
Alisha Lehmann in action on the football field. Photograph: Getty Images
Challenging Perceptions of Women’s Football
Lehmann is not just concerned about her situation; she is passionate about challenging the negative perceptions that surround women’s football. She highlighted a common response from critics, saying, “If someone comes to me with jokes, I always ask them, ‘Have you ever seen a match?’ Probably not, because when you see a match, you realise how good and passionate we are.”
This remark reflects her dedication to promoting the women’s game and dispelling the myths that often diminish its value. Lehmann’s advocacy for women’s football is vital, as increased visibility and support can contribute to future advancements in pay and recognition.
Recent Moves and Performances
Both players made significant transfers to Juventus in the summer, marking a new chapter in their careers. Douglas Luiz’s move was valued at around £50 million, compared to Lehmann’s deal, reportedly around £42,000. Such discrepancies not only highlight ongoing financial inequalities in football but also underline the urgent need for reforms in compensation structures within the sport.
Since relocating to Italy, Lehmann has made a strong impact on the field, having scored one goal in two matches. Luiz, however, has had a slower start, currently limited to three substitute appearances. The contrast in their on-field success further emphasizes the disparity in their footballing journeys and contracts.
Looking Toward the Future
Lehmann remains hopeful for the future of women’s football, even if she acknowledges the path ahead is steep. “There will have to be a very strong will to make a change in this direction,” she stated, reflecting a shared aspiration within the women’s game for equality and respect.
As discussions about pay equity in sports continue, Lehmann’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the work that still needs to be done. With rising popularity and increased viewership of women’s football, many experts believe that equal pay is a goal that can eventually be achieved.
Alisha Lehmann speaks openly about the pay gap in sports, which helps us see the unfair differences that still exist. Her experience shows how important it is to work together for equality. Alisha’s story starts a discussion about how much we should value female athletes as sports continue to change.
