The Athlete as National Symbol

Examining the phenomenon of nationalism in the world of sport, this book identifies moments when athletes became national symbols through their actions on and off of the playing field. Since the break-up of the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia, and related global events of the 1980s and 1990s, scholars have explored how race, ethnicity, gender and sexuality shape and are shaped by nationalism and national participation. This collection of new essays examines athletes in a global context. Topics include: race, golf and the struggle for social justice in South Africa; how sport became a battleground within the Israel/Palestine conflict; multiculturalism and the Olympic Games; and white privilege in sport. Through case studies, contributors explore the strength (and fragility) associated with national identity, and how athletes become icons for their nations.