After the criticism, Anna Nordqvist is now breaking off the collaboration as ambassador for the state oil company Saudi Aramco’s competitions on the ladies’ European Tour.
Amnesty, which previously criticized the golf star, welcomes the announcement.
— As a female athlete, it is particularly relevant given that women’s human rights are violated so seriously in Saudi Arabia, so I think it sounds like a very wise decision to withdraw from this type of cooperation, says Maja Åberg, expert at Amnesty. to TT.
TT: What signals does it send out?
— I think that it sends a signal that Saudi Arabia must improve the human rights situation in the country and especially the human rights situation for women who are especially vulnerable.
In addition to Anna Nordqvist, men’s star Henrik Stenson has also received harsh criticism for his decision last year to move to the new LIV tour, financed by Saudi Arabia.
Amnesty International urges all sportsmen not to contribute to so-called “sportswashing”. Maja Åberg hopes and believes that the decision can lead to other players and sportsmen taking a stand on the issue.
— It is especially important when famous people and sports profiles take personal responsibility for contributing to human rights. Several of the most well-known soccer players have and have had various types of ambassadorial roles for Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries in various contexts.