Panama’s star midfielder, Marta Cox, has made headlines after threatening not to play for her national team again. The controversy stems from comments made by the president of Panama’s football federation, Manuel Arias, who referred to Cox as “fat” and “out of shape” after she criticized the team’s facilities following their early exit at the Concacaf W Gold Cup.
Cox, who plays professionally for Tijuana in Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, expressed her disappointment with the president’s remarks, stating, “If this type of situation becomes a constant, I will not return for the national team.” The 26-year-old made history by scoring Panama’s first Women’s World Cup goal last summer, but the team failed to earn a point in their group games at the Gold Cup.
The players union Fifpro condemned Arias’ comments as “unacceptable,” prompting an apology from the federation. In a statement, Cox emphasized the need for progress in women’s football in Panama, calling for introspection beyond just the players’ performance.
FEPAFUT issued an apology for Arias’ remarks, pledging to work towards improving women’s football in the country. Despite the controversy, Cox’s stand has shed light on the challenges faced by female athletes and the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality in sports.
