Esports has become a popular and lucrative multidisciplinary activity, but its legitimacy as a professional sport is still debated. One argument for recognition is the similarities to traditional sports, with teamwork, strategy, physical and mental endurance, and quick reflexes required. Esports also has recognition from organizations such as the International Olympic Committee and the US Department of State, and universities have started offering esports courses and scholarships. However, critics argue that esports does not require physical exertion and is not a “real” sport because it is virtual. The debate is polarizing, but with the industry growing and gaining recognition, it may eventually become unavoidable to consider esports a professional sport.

The Legitimacy of Esports as a Professional Sport: An Argument and Debate

Introduction

In recent years, esports has gained tremendous popularity and recognition as a competitive multidisciplinary activity. With the emergence of multiplayer online games, such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike, esports has evolved into a lucrative professional sport attracting millions of players, viewers, and sponsors. However, the legitimacy of esports as a sport remains a controversial issue, with some people questioning whether or not it deserves recognition as a professional sport, let alone one that can be played at the international level. This article, therefore, explores the arguments for and against the legitimacy of esports as a professional sport.

Argument for the Legitimacy of Esports as a Professional Sport

One of the most compelling arguments for recognizing esports as a professional sport is its similarities to traditional sports. Like traditional sports, esports requires teamwork, strategy, physical and mental endurance, and quick reflexes. In addition, esports players train and compete at a professional level, just like athletes, and as such, they deserve to be recognized and treated as such.

Moreover, esports has already been recognized as a sport by prestigious organizations such as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the US Department of State. The IOC has acknowledged esports as a sport, but not yet a part of the Olympics, stating that esports’ “players wear professional uniforms, perform for a live audience, have sponsors, and take part in world championships operated by international federations” (International Olympic Committee, 2019).

Furthermore, esports has also gained recognition in the academic world, with several universities, including the University of California, Irvine, and Staffordshire University, offering esports courses and scholarships. These developments suggest that esports is not only a legitimized professional sport but also a rapidly growing industry with untapped potentials.

Argument Against the Legitimacy of Esports as a Professional Sport

On the other hand, some people argue that esports is not a legitimate sport because it does not satisfy the typical criteria to classify as a sport. Traditional sports, such as football, basketball, and tennis, all require physical exertion, while esports does not. Critics of esports, therefore, argue that it is closer to a game than a sport and that it cannot be physical enough to qualify as a sport.

Additionally, some detractors argue that esports is not a sport because it is not “real.” In other words, esports games are virtual, and the players do not engage in a physical activity that can be replicated in real life. Critics of esports also point out that the game is not played on a level playing field because players can manipulate the game’s software to gain an unfair advantage.

Debate: Should Esports be Recognized as a Professional Sport?

The debate on whether esports should be recognized as a professional sport is highly polarized, with both sides presenting valid arguments. Those who support recognizing esports as a sport argue that the industry is growing immensely and deserves to be considered a legitimate professional field. They point out that it is already being recognized by institutions and organizations that govern traditional sports.

Opponents of esports, on the other hand, argue that it is not a physical activity and that the regulations governing the sport are soft. These critics maintain that esports does not deserve to be compared to traditional sports because it is not a “real sport” and does not require physical exertion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the legitimacy of esports as a professional sport is a contentious issue that continues to generate debate. While some people believe esports deserve to be classified as a professional sport, others remain unconvinced. However, with the industry continuing to grow rapidly and gain more recognition, it is only a matter of time before mere debates become unnecessary, and esports is inevitably regarded as a professional sport.