Julia Fox has openly criticized the sports superstitions that unfairly target women, particularly rejecting claims that pop star Taylor Swift is responsible for the Kansas City Chiefs’ 1-2 start this season. In a recent interview on September 25, Fox addressed the misplaced scrutiny aimed at athletes’ wives and girlfriends, emphasizing that such beliefs are irrational and unjust.
Fox, 35, spoke to Pedestrian.TV while promoting her new psychological thriller, “Him,” which explores the intense world of professional football. She challenged the notion that women connected to athletes somehow influence game outcomes or fan fortunes, highlighting the absurdity of blaming partners for athletes’ losses.
Criticism of Superstitions Targeting Female Partners of Athletes
“Like, if a guy loses a game it’s a girl’s ‘fault,’ it’s, like, his girlfriend’s ‘fault.’ It’s just crazy. And all the superstitions and all the irrational ass s*** that these men believe, you know, that ultimately leads to a woman being blamed,”
Fox explained. She recalled how former Chiefs player Travis Kelce’s loss was attributed to Taylor Swift, describing those accusations as “crazy.”
Fox further expressed the irony of such blame, stating,
“It’s like, oh, I didn’t know we were so powerful. So you’re admitting that we are powerful? So you’re admitting it?”
Her comments underline the tension surrounding the gendered nature of blame in sports environments, where female partners often bear responsibility for unrelated outcomes.
Challenges Faced by Women in the Public Eye of Sports
The actress also highlighted the emotional toll on women involved with sports figures, explaining that these relationships bring intense public attention.
“Eventually you do find yourself reading the gossip or whatever, the tabloids. It kinda piques your curiosity,”
Fox said, acknowledging the high stakes and pressure that come with such exposure.
She admitted the world of professional sports is daunting and not suited to everyone.
“It seems like such an intense world. … It’s definitely not for me,”
she stated, before expressing a newly found respect for those, especially women, who navigate these challenges daily.
The Public Relationship Between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce
Taylor Swift, 35, and Travis Kelce, also 35, have been publicly supportive of each other since their dating began quietly in July 2023. Swift’s attendance at several Kansas City Chiefs home games during the 2023 NFL season surprised fans and quickly made her a familiar presence at games.
Kelce has also reciprocated support by attending Swift’s concerts worldwide, with his first appearance at one of her shows taking place in Argentina in November 2023. In August 2024, Kelce announced the release of Swift’s 12th studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” on his podcast, unveiling new cover art for her project.
Engagement Announcement and Details on Taylor Swift’s Ring
The couple took a major relationship step by announcing their engagement in August 2024. Swift shared the news with a playful caption,
“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,”
alongside photos of Kelce proposing.
Jewelry expert Nilesh Rakholia told Us Weekly that the engagement ring’s value could range between $950,000 and $1,270,000, estimating the central stone to be between 7 and 10 carats. Laura Taylor, another jeweler specializing in engagement rings, suggested the diamond could be up to 12 carats and “easily worth” over $1 million.
Media Reactions Defending Taylor Swift Against Criticism
In the wake of widespread discussions linking Swift to the Chiefs’ performance, ESPN host Elle Duncan strongly refuted any allegations that Taylor Swift is responsible for the team’s losses. Duncan’s defense highlights ongoing efforts within sports media to combat unfair gendered narratives in sports culture.
Impact and Ongoing Conversation Surrounding Women and Sports Superstitions
Julia Fox’s outspoken criticism brings attention to the persistent challenges women face when involved with professional athletes, spotlighting the unfair tendency to scapegoat them for unrelated sporting events. Her comments underscore the need to dismantle damaging superstitions and biases that fuel public scrutiny and create pressure on women connected to athletes.
As Swift and Kelce continue their public relationship amid NFL season ups and downs, the conversation about gender roles and respect within sports culture remains significant. Fox’s remarks contribute to a broader discussion on the importance of supporting women in sports environments rather than blaming them for outcomes beyond their control.
