New Media (Social Media) via Virtual Space Sites and its Impact on Sports Journalism: A Field Study on a Sample of Online Sports Website Followers.

Abstract

The media plays a vital role in people's lives, given its ability to attract diverse audiences with varying customs, traditions, norms, values, and beliefs. It also provides individuals with a wide range of information, covering social, political, economic, and cultural topics, and fulfills several functions such as advertising, publicity, entertainment, and leisure. Furthermore, modern communication technologies, particularly new media and social networking sites, are among the most significant developments stemming from information systems, especially the second and third generations of the internet (Web 2.0 and Web 3.0). These technologies have become a virtual environment parallel to lived reality, enabling individuals to engage in various daily activities such as reading, communicating, exchanging opinions, and sharing interests. They have also facilitated collaboration among sports professionals and media figures, contributing to the advancement of physical and athletic activity, both theoretically and practically.