Answer:
A
Step-by-step explanation:
Since the early 1970s, the gap between male and female athletes has shrunk. This is largely due to the efforts of women's sports advocates who have fought for greater opportunities for female athletes and increased funding for women's sports programs. Title IX, a federal law passed in 1972, has also played a significant role in narrowing the gap by requiring equal opportunities for male and female athletes in educational institutions that receive federal funding. However, there is still work to be done to achieve true gender equity in sports.
Option B: "Widened" - This is not correct because, as mentioned earlier, the gap between male and female athletes has actually shrunk since the early 1970s. Prior to the enactment of Title IX in 1972, female athletes had limited opportunities to participate in sports at the high school and college levels, and received very little funding and support. Since then, there has been a steady increase in the number of female athletes, teams, and sports programs, as well as greater recognition and respect for women's sports.
Option C: "Stayed the same" - This is not correct either because, as explained above, the gap between male and female athletes has actually narrowed since the 1970s. While there are still disparities in funding and resources between men's and women's sports, there have been significant strides made in terms of increasing opportunities and visibility for female athletes.
Option D: "Closed completely" - This is also not correct because while progress has been made in narrowing the gap between male and female athletes, there are still disparities that exist. For example, male athletes often receive higher salaries, more media coverage, and greater sponsorship opportunities than their female counterparts. Additionally, certain sports (such as football) continue to be male-dominated and receive far more attention and funding than women's sports. Therefore, there is still work to be done to achieve true gender equity in sports.