Exploring the challenges of competitive Muslim women's sports

The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges of Muslim women's competitive sports. The present study was conducted using the layered causal analysis method. This method is qualitative and exploratory in terms of approach. Considering the nature of the subject and the classification of layers, the triangulation method was used to collect data. Data triangulation uses multiple data sources in a study, which can include (interviews_ visual media_ news_ study of theoretical foundations and documents). In the interview section, 16 people (professors, coaches, and professional athletes) were interviewed. The layered causal analysis method was used to analyze the data. The findings of this study showed that the challenges for Muslim women in competitive sports at the litany level include: restrictions on Islamic clothing and attire, negative cultural and social attitudes, gender discrimination; challenges at the systematic level include the categories of: economic problems, social problems, lack of facilities and infrastructure, and individual problems; Challenges at the discourse analysis level include: traditionalist versus modernist worldview, attitude towards women's bodies, westernist versus nativist worldview; and finally, the last level, myths and metaphors, including: women as guardians of the home, sacred bodies, competition, men's arena, and heroes as victims. Therefore, we conclude that in order to reduce the challenges of competitive sports for Muslim women, it is necessary to strengthen financial and infrastructural support, provide appropriate conditions for Islamic dress, and correct negative attitudes and gender stereotypes through education and the media to provide the basis for their greater participation and success.