In an era where shared activities can strengthen relationships, a recent nationwide survey by Bumble, the women-first dating app, has shed light on how sports are becoming a significant bonding activity for Singaporean couples. As the world gears up for a competitive sports season, the survey reveals that 43% of Singaporeans watch sports with their partners, regardless of their personal interest in it.
Creating Shared Memories Through Sports
The survey highlights that among those who engage in this activity, 62% genuinely enjoy watching sports together, while the rest participate to spend quality time with their partners. This practice of watching sports together fosters shared memories and experiences, which can lead to a deeper emotional connection and stronger relationships.
The Ideal Date: Watching Sports
For many Singaporeans, watching sports is not just entertainment but an ideal date activity. The survey found that 73% of participants see it as an opportunity to learn about their partner’s interests and passions. Additionally, 66% believe it helps them understand their partner’s personality, and 52% consider it an effective icebreaker. These findings underscore the role of sports in facilitating meaningful conversations and connections during dates.
Sports as a Relationship Criterion
Despite the passion for sports, only 10% of Singaporeans consider it a dealbreaker if their partner does not share this interest. However, 16% actively seek partners who share their enthusiasm for sports, viewing it as crucial for a compatible relationship. Interestingly, this preference is more pronounced among Gen Zs (18%) compared to Millennials (14%). Moreover, men are twice as likely as women to insist on a partner who enjoys watching sports together.
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Leveraging Bumble’s Interest Badges
Bumble’s interest badges, including over 40 sports-related ones, provide an easy way for users to start conversations and find compatible partners. The app’s internal data shows that Olympic sports such as running, football, basketball, badminton, cycling, bouldering, and swimming are among the top interests for Singaporean singles.
Lucille McCart, APAC Communications Director at Bumble, commented, “With a new wave of women tennis stars, a constant stream of sports documentaries, and the most significant global competition coming up at the end of this month, sports is set to take a front seat in dating. Sports is a clear passion point among Singaporeans, and we see our community starting to use the upcoming games as a topic to bond over and make connections and get to know each other. Mutual interests are really important in a relationship, so if you are looking out for a new connection this sporting season, add your favourite sports interest badges – be it soccer, running, or swimming – onto your Bumble profile, and find matches that align with your interests!”
About Bumble
Founded by Whitney Wolfe Herd in 2014, Bumble is a pioneering women-first dating and social networking app. Bumble connects people across three key areas: dating (Bumble Date), friendship (Bumble For Friends), and professional networking (Bumble Bizz). Built on the principles of equitable relationships, Bumble emphasizes the importance of kindness, respect, and equality in fostering healthy and happy lives.
Bumble’s platform encourages accountability and aims to create a safe, welcoming environment free from hate, aggression, and bullying. The app is designed to empower users and ensure positive interactions. Bumble is available for free download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and the web.
