Freakonomics Radio Extra: What Is Sportswashing — and Does It Work? (Update)
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Mar 4, 2024 
Victor Matheson, an economics professor, discusses the complex relationship between sports and a nation's reputation, particularly through the lens of sportswashing. Alan Shipnuck, a sports journalist, sheds light on the riveting LIV Golf saga and its clash with the PGA Tour. Jodi Balsam, a clinical law professor, provides a legal perspective on these controversies. Together, they explore how countries use sporting events to reshape their image while confronting the ethical dilemmas and possible backlash surrounding these tactics.
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Thai Soft Power
- Thailand uses "gastro-diplomacy" as soft power.
- They've opened thousands of Thai restaurants globally to boost their image.
Sportswashing Origins
- The term "sportswashing" likely originated in 2015, describing Azerbaijan's hosting of the European Games.
- This was despite Azerbaijan's troublesome human rights record.
Saudi Arabia and Sportswashing
- Saudi Arabia has been involved in sportswashing for a long time, using various sports.
- Golf is particularly attractive because they can influence individual players.
