A new global study commissioned by Logitech G has highlighted a significant generational divide in Australia over whether esports should become an Olympic sport, with younger Australians overwhelmingly supporting the idea while older generations remain unconvinced.
The research surveyed 1,500 Australians as part of a broader international study involving 18,000 participants. Among Australians aged 18 to 24, 59% believe esports deserve a place in the Olympic Games, compared with just 22% of Australians overall.
Support declines dramatically with age. Only 19% of Australians aged 45 to 54 agreed esports belong in the Olympics, while support falls to just 4.6% among Australians aged 55 and over.
According to Logitech G, the findings reflect changing attitudes towards what constitutes sport and athletic performance.
“The results of this study expose a clear generational divide in how Australians define sport and entertainment,” said Daniel Hall, Senior Category Manager at Logitech G ANZ.
“Gaming is a large part of many young Australians’ lifestyles, so it is perhaps unsurprising that the majority feel it should be included in the Olympics. However, these figures point at something deeper – an evolving conversation around what makes a sportsperson.
“While older generations might be sceptical of the comparison, the reality is that professional gamers are skilled cognitive athletes – they endure extensive multi-hour training schedules, require split-second reflexes and handle intense pressure just like a gymnast, sprinter or swimmer. As these findings show, differences between what could traditionally be called ‘sports’ and ‘entertainment’ are narrowing, with lines becoming increasingly blurred with each new generation.”
Australian youth more supportive than the global average
The Australian results also stand out internationally.
Across the wider global survey, around half of respondents aged 18 to 24 supported esports joining the Olympic Games. Australian respondents in the same age bracket recorded support levels nearly 10 percentage points higher, suggesting local enthusiasm for competitive gaming exceeds that of many overseas markets.
Hall believes Australia’s long-standing sporting culture is evolving rather than disappearing.
“Considering how outdoorsy we are brought up to be here Down Under, it’s very interesting that young Aussies are among the more passionate supporters globally when it comes to esports in the Olympics,” he said.
“It further reinforces that we are genuinely a sports-mad nation, but this enthusiasm isn’t just confined to the pitch or pool anymore. Aussies love competition, team strategy and the thrill of a win, so it’s only natural that this passion has spilled over into the digital arena.”
Generational attitudes towards esports continue to evolve
Esports has continued its rapid growth worldwide, attracting professional leagues, multi-million-dollar tournaments and audiences that rival many traditional sporting events. The Logitech G research suggests younger Australians increasingly view competitive gaming through the same lens as conventional sports, while older generations remain considerably more hesitant.
The findings underscore an ongoing cultural shift as competitive gaming becomes more mainstream and conversations continue around its place alongside traditional Olympic disciplines.
What are your thoughts?
