Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill says diversity is still a 'huge struggle' in sport

08 February 2024 , 15:45

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Dame Jessica Ennis-Holl has opened up about her achievements (Image: Getty Images For MOBO)

Dame Jessica-Ennis Hill has opened up about being branded an inspiration but says women in sports still face struggles.

The Olympic legend competed in the Heptathlon at both the London 2012 games as well as the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro and cemented her status in the athletics community. But while the 38-year-old may have broken barriers and inspired thousands, she says that the industry still needs to fight for inequality.

Although she may have won Olympic gold medals, the Sheffield-born native was recently celebrated at the 26th MOBO awards in her hometown, being honoured with the Paving The Way Award, with Loose Women's Charlene White presenting the trophy to her.

Jessica believes that while conversations are currently happening, she admits there are still struggles in the industry (Getty Images For MOBO)

Jessica has firmly cemented herself as an Olympic legend (MDM)

"It's so special," she exclusively told the Mirror, adding: "To be here at this amazing awards and then to be awarded with such a great and inspirational award, I'm very proud." But while some may assume Jessica feels pressure to live up to her previous achievements, she admits this is the complete opposite for her.

She said: "I feel so fortunate, I feel so lucky that firstly I've been able to have a career doing something that I started off as a hobby that I love and enjoyed for so many years, and then if that extends to inspiring young girls and other people to want to do sports, that's such an honour so I never feel the pressure, I just feel it's an absolute privilege."

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In recent years there has been a call for sports to be more gender diverse across the board but although women in sport are often overlooked, Jessica says that while things aren't in place yet, the industry is on the right track. "I think it's still really hard for girls and women to succeed in sport, I think there's so many barriers.

"Then with the diversity as well it's still a massive struggle, I do see that things are changing. There is more opportunity and conversation and awareness and I think that’s half the battle, if we keep talking about it and making it heard from the rooftops, then we’ll hopefully make a change."

Jessica has never shunned her South Yorkshire routes and remains dedicated to her hometown. The star - who wore a striking black gown for the glitzy ceremony - admitted she was thrilled about Sheffield being chosen. But as some of the biggest names in music descended on the stunning city, she offered some vital advice for them.

She said: "I’d say make sure you have time to go and see the city, it’s an amazing city, we’ve got amazing traditions, sporting traditions, we’ve got amazing cafes, restaurants and bars, a real nice culture around the city and the beautiful Peak District on our doorstep, soak up this incredible place."

Daniel Bird