Honors Theses and Capstones

Date of Award

Spring 2025

Project Type

Senior Honors Thesis

College or School

COLA

Department

Communication

Program or Major

Communication

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

First Advisor

Joseph Terry

Abstract

This study examines the influence that fan commentary has on media framing in sports journalism, especially in times of intense rivalry. The rivalry chosen for this specific study was Marc Marquez-Valentino Rossi as seen in the MotoGP championship. This research discusses the cyclical nature between the interaction of fan and media while shaping popular narratives in sport. A qualitative analysis of media headlines and fan comments was conducted comparing those found at the start of the rivalry in 2015, with reporting at its height, to that of the legacy reporting seen in the years that followed. Findings in this study show the media adopting the negative focused, emotionally charged narratives introduced by fans. This shows the struggle for professionalism and subjectivity within sports journalism, highlighting how the rise of a digital age has shaped the landscape of sports journalism.

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