Voices of Change: A Qualitative Analysis of the Motivations Behind Female Athlete Activism at Tokyo 2020

This study investigates the motivations of intersectionally marginalized female athletes engaging in activism during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Using qualitative content analysis of secondary-sourced interviews with three U.S. Olympians, the research identifies five areas influencing activist behavior. The findings reveal that the interplay of psychological needs—autonomy and self-identification, competence and controllability, and belonging and community connection—alongside socialization and personal identity drive these athletes’ actions. By highlighting these motivational factors, the study provides valuable insights for sporting organizations, offering future directions on fostering environments that support athlete activism while addressing systemic inequities.