Because I Am an Athlete: Body Image, Freedom of Sexual Orientation and Society Label

The body phenomenon is not just a biological phenomenon, but it is also a social display area, as evidenced by the clothing worn, posture, look, accessories, and activities utilized. As a result, the shown bodies are suppressed by societal standards, and when these norms are not appropriate for the context, they are suppressed. The goal of this study is to identify the sexual orientation labels applied to individuals based on their physical appearance within the context of societal standards. This is a case study undertaken within the framework of qualitative research. Participants were given photographs of athletes and answered two questions, one multiple choice and one open-ended. The labels associated with the athletes were separated into four categories based on the answers supplied by the participants to the questions: body image, body language, dress style, and indefinable traits. Biopowers employ numerous regulators in society to order societies and set norms. Athletes' bodies and physical features, however, are tied not just to their own decisions, but also to the needs of the sport, and they should not be stigmatized or ostracized as a result of these norms.