Kristin Juszczyk Speaks Out Against the Term WAG
In a recent episode of “Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce,” Kristin Juszczyk and Kylie Kelce discussed their views on the term WAG, which refers to the wives and girlfriends of professional athletes. Kelce commended Juszczyk for reshaping the meaning of the term, particularly through her successful sports apparel brand, Off Season. Despite the negative associations with being labelled a WAG, Juszczyk shared her evolving perspective on the term that she finds derogatory and uncomfortable.
During the conversation, Juszczyk, who is married to San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk, expressed her dissatisfaction with the term. She questioned the origin of the term, highlighting that no other profession is labelled in the same way, prompting her to feel a sense of pride in supporting her husband while reclaiming her individual identity.
Kelce, married to former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, echoed Juszczyk’s sentiments, pointing out the negative undertones attached to the term WAG. She acknowledged that while not everyone uses the term in a derogatory manner, it often carries a stigma that pigeonholes women based on their partners’ careers, diminishing their own identities and accomplishments.
Despite the challenges posed by the term, Juszczyk, alongside launching her sports apparel brand Off Season with Emma Grede, believes that current WAGs are reshaping its meaning through empowerment and support for their partners. She emphasised the vital role these women play in enabling athletes to focus on their careers, thereby reshaping the narrative around being a WAG.
Both Kelce and Juszczyk advocated for recognizing and applauding the strength and resilience of women in supporting their partners while maintaining their own independence and pursuits. They emphasised the importance of celebrating women’s contributions beyond their relationships, rejecting the notion that they should be defined solely by their partners’ achievements.
Kelce’s previous comments on the term WAG garnered attention during an appearance on “Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper.” She reiterated her stance on not allowing her identity to be overshadowed by her spouse’s profession, highlighting the need to maintain individuality and autonomy within a relationship.
In a society where women are often judged based on their association with successful men, Juszczyk and Kelce’s candid discussion sheds light on the pervasive stereotypes and challenges faced by partners of athletes. By challenging these norms and advocating for individual recognition and empowerment, they are reshaping the narrative for women in sports and beyond.
As discussions around gender roles and expectations continue to evolve, voices like Juszczyk and Kelce’s are pivotal in challenging outdated perceptions and fostering a culture of empowerment and equality. Their refusal to be confined by societal labels serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of celebrating women’s achievements and identities on their own terms.