Ireland legend Ronan O'Gara accused of 'misogyny' after old comments re-emerge
Rugby NewsTuesday, 09 April 2024 at 07:59
Ronan O'Gara is facing accusations of sexism after old remarks resurfaced in which he seemingly asserted that rugby was 'too complex' for women.
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
The contentious comments were made during an interview with the Irish Independent in 2016, where O'Gara, currently serving as the head coach of La Rochelle, was accompanied by his wife, Jessica Daly.
Discussing O'Gara's rugby career, the former fly-half humorously remarked that his wife 'wouldn't have a clue what's going on' during games, eliciting a reaction from Daly.
In response, O'Gara quipped, 'Well, if she was into rugby that much, it wouldn't work either, because some women do try and offer their opinion about the game, and the game is too complex for them to have an input on.'
He then added, 'No, but for a lot of them. It's very good to separate them.'
The comments have caused a storm on social media with O'Gara's character being questioned.
Rugby scribe Jessica Hayden wrote: "I just read the whole article and my jaw dropped."
Another fan commented: "Well…. I hadn’t realised my uterus meant my 6 years playing, and 40 years watching the game, were wasted. What a bellend."
A third said: "s this a spoof? He never said that surely?"
"I just read that article for the first time- it is astounding!" said another.
O'Gara and Daly are parents to five children. Twins Rua and Molly were born in 2008 while their three sons - JJ, Zak, and Max - were born in 2010, 2012, and 2014 respectively.
Top 20 players in the world: 2024
#20. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
A powerhouse winger, van der Merwe's size and speed make him a lethal attacking threat. His ability to break tackles and finish tries, combined with his strong defensive efforts, adds a dynamic edge to Scotland's backline.
#19. Finn Russell (Scotland)
A creative playmaker at fly-half, Russell's flair and innovative decision-making set him apart. His precise passing and daring attacking kicks often unlock opportunities for Scotland. His presence ensures an unpredictable and exciting dimension to the team's game.
#18. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand)
A versatile back, Barrett's impressive boot, aerial skills, and positional awareness offer versatility to the All Blacks. His ability to play fullback, wing, or center, coupled with his goal-kicking prowess, makes him a valuable asset to the New Zealand squad.
#17. Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
A tenacious openside flanker, van der Flier's work rate and breakdown prowess are his standout traits. His relentless tackling and ability to secure turnovers make him a vital component of Ireland's defensive efforts and breakdown strategies.
#16. Aaron Smith (New Zealand)
#15. Will Jordan (New Zealand)
An exciting fullback/winger, Jordan's speed and finishing ability make him a try-scoring machine. His support play and elusive running lines exploit defensive gaps. His presence adds a dynamic edge to the All Blacks' attacking strategies.
#14. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
Beirne's versatility as a lock and back-row player elevates Ireland's options. His athleticism, lineout skills, and aggressive breakdown work set him apart. An asset in both set pieces and open play, he consistently impacts the game.
#13. Scott Barrett (New Zealand)
A robust lock/flanker, Barrett's physicality and tireless work ethic make him an asset to New Zealand's forward pack. His lineout expertise and powerful ball-carrying contribute to the All Blacks' dominance in set pieces and loose play.
#12. Damian Penaud (France)
Penaud's flair as a center/winger adds a creative dimension to France's backline. His ability to break tackles and create scoring opportunities, combined with his defensive resolve, makes him a crucial player in France's strategies.
#11. Lukhanyo Am (South Africa)
Am's skillful play at center bolsters the Springboks' backline. His defensive prowess, distribution, and ability to create space for teammates highlight his versatility. A player who combines finesse with physicality on the field.
#10. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
An exceptional tighthead prop, Furlong's scrummaging prowess and mobility set him apart. His ability to contribute in open play, both as a ball-carrier and in support, makes him a well-rounded force in Ireland's forward pack.
#9. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
A contender for player of the 2023 World Cup by the end of the group stage because of his barnstorming runs, power in the tackle and work over the ball. Aki possess the rare skill of being able to generate tremendous power from a standing start, even against defence as robust as South Africa’s. He is quick too.
#8. Pablo Matera (Argentina)
Matera's leadership as a dynamic flanker is central to Argentina's efforts. His aggressive ball-carrying, breakdown skills, and defensive tenacity inspire his team. A player whose passion and commitment set the tone on the field.
#7. Beauden Barrett (New Zealand)
An iconic figure in New Zealand rugby, Barrett's versatility as a fly-half/fullback amplifies his impact. Renowned for his attacking brilliance, kicking precision, and spatial awareness, he is a linchpin in the All Blacks' strategies.
#6. Maro Itoje (England)
For numerous years, Maro Itoje has been a pivotal force in England's forward lineup. Renowned for his exceptional athleticism and astute game sense, Itoje excels in the lineout and commands a formidable presence during open play. His proficiency in disrupting the opponent's possession, coupled with his relentless work ethic across the field, solidifies his status as a crucial asset for the England team. The early game statistics underscore his significant impact, with an impressive tally of turnovers won and tackles made, further emphasising his influence.
#5. Eben Eztebeth (South Africa)
A towering lock, Etzebeth's physicality and presence anchor South Africa's forward pack. His lineout expertise, ball-carrying power, and confrontational play style make him a formidable force on the field.
#4. Richie Mo'unga (New Zealand)
New Zealand's dynamic fly-half, Mo'unga's playmaking brilliance and kicking precision shape the All Blacks' attack. His creative passes, tactical kicks, and ability to read defenses make him a pivotal force in orchestrating New Zealand's gameplay.
#3. Grégory Alldritt (France)
France's formidable number 8, Alldritt's powerful ball-carrying and breakdown skills define his impact. His ability to create momentum with every touch, coupled with his tenacious defensive efforts, solidify his position as a driving force in France's forward pack.
#2. Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
An explosive back-rower, Savea's versatility and aggression set him apart. His breakdown dominance, ball-carrying strength, and defensive tenacity make him a vital asset for the All Blacks. A player whose intensity shapes both set pieces and open play.
#1. Antoine Dupont (France)
France's exceptional scrum-half, Dupont's speed, vision, and tactical acumen drive his team's rhythm. His precise passing, evasive running, and astute decision-making make him a linchpin in orchestrating France's attack. A player who dictates the game's tempo with finesse.
Wales Online wrote: "The France captain is widely regarded as the best player on the planet. Former world player of the year Dupont is the complete scrum-half and has the ability to win a game of rugby almost single-handedly.
"If he brings his A game France have a great chance of lifting the Williams Webb-Ellis Cup on home soil this autumn."
TRENDING
LATEST NEWS
LATEST COMMENTS
Loading
