Gatekeeping in the Digital World: The Individual and Organizational Gatekeeping Roles of Sports Journalists on X in Türkiye *

Abstract

This study aims to determine the individual and organizational gatekeeping roles of sports journalists in Türkiye on X (formerly Twitter). To explore gatekeeping in a platform-driven digital environment, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 sports journalists who actively use X as part of their professional routines. The study examines how journalists perceive and perform their gatekeeping roles in the context of algorithmic visibility and user interactions. Findings reveal a shift from traditional gatekeeping structures, as journalists increasingly share these roles with external actors such as fans, influencers, athletes, and clubs. While “trust” remains central in the selection and amplification of content, interviewees emphasized the growing influence of algorithmic mechanisms—such as engagement-based reach, trending topics, and personalized timelines—on visibility and credibility. Journalists expressed ambivalence about the algorithm’s role, noting that it can both reinforce and challenge editorial judgment, creating tension between professional responsibility and audience appeal. This study sheds light on how algorithmic structures and participatory dynamics transform the gatekeeping practices of sports journalists in Türkiye. By focusing on the intersection of journalism, digital interactivity, and platform algorithms, the study contributes to broader discussions on authority, credibility, and information control within hybrid media systems.