Debate on Women’s Sports: Opinions and Silence from Prominent Athletes

The topic of transgender athletes in women’s sports has long stirred debate. WNBA player Sophie Cunningham recently strengthened her defense of women’s sports, emphasizing Title IX’s foundational role. Jennifer Sey, founder of XX-XY Athletics, supports Cunningham’s position, highlighting its alignment with widespread beliefs despite media backlash.

Sophie Cunningham’s Stance

Sophie Cunningham has joined a select group of female athletes openly advocating to protect young girls by maintaining female-only sports categories. Her statements invite curiosity about the views of other prominent female athletes on this issue.

Simone Biles Weighs In

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles publicly entered the conversation in June 2025 during a dispute with Riley Gaines. Biles criticized Gaines for her remarks regarding a Minnesota high school softball team including a male player. Biles argued for finding ways to include transgender athletes in women’s sports, but faced backlash. Despite apologizing for her approach, Biles maintained her support for inclusion, acknowledging the complexity surrounding fairness in this context.

A’Ja Wilson’s Silence

WNBA MVP A’Ja Wilson has not publicly addressed transgender participation in women’s sports. While she often speaks on equality and diversity, no statements regarding sports eligibility are known. There is no record of Wilson being directly asked about the issue.

Serena Williams’ Historical Comments

Serena Williams has not taken a clear public stance, but her past comments reflect the biological differences in sports. During a 2013 interview, Williams mentioned that competing against male tennis player Andy Murray would likely result in a swift defeat for her. Although not directly related to current debates, these remarks have impacted discussions about maintaining female exclusive sports.

Katie Ledecky Avoids Politics

Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky has largely avoided political debates, including those concerning transgender athletes in women’s sports. When asked by The New York Times about Lia Thomas and Title IX, Ledecky chose not to take a position, emphasizing the value of discussing different perspectives.

Coco Gauff’s Open Support for LGBTQ, but Silence on Specific Issues

Tennis star Coco Gauff supports the LGBTQ community but hasn’t addressed transgender participation in women’s sports specifically. Riley Gaines publicly urged Gauff to speak on the issue, noting the importance of clarity.

Caitlin Clark’s Inclusive Message

WNBA star Caitlin Clark advocates for equal rights and respect for transgender people but did not provide a clear stance on whether biological males should compete in women’s sports during an interview with TIME.

Paige Bueckers’ Focus on Other Issues

WNBA player Paige Bueckers is outspoken on social justice issues but remains silent on transgender participation in women’s sports.

Sabrina Ionescu and Sha’Carri Richardson’s Silence

WNBA champion Sabrina Ionescu and track star Sha’Carri Richardson have not publicly stated positions, despite frequently discussing inclusion and individuality. Neither has been recorded addressing this specific sports issue.

Hilary Knight Supports Inclusion

Hockey player Hilary Knight supports transgender inclusion in sports. She emphasized fostering welcoming environments while respecting governing body decisions during international policy change discussions.

Many athletes remain silent, while Cunningham continues to advocate for maintaining women’s sports as female-exclusive. The debate invites more voices, urging prominent figures to take a stand.