Caitlyn Jenner has weighed in on the WNBA's ongoing discussions regarding the eligibility of transgender athletes, suggesting a straightforward approach to resolve the issue. Jenner stated in an appearance on "Fox News @ Night" that the league is demonstrating hypocrisy in its handling of the matter and emphasized the importance of protecting women's sports.
"Cathy, XX, you’re in. XY you’re out. It’s that simple," Jenner said, referring to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Jenner believes that former NBA players Royce White and Enes Kanter Freedom, who have publicly declared bids to join the WNBA, are highlighting the league's perceived inconsistencies.
Jenner voiced support for protecting women's sports, asserting that Title IX, legislation aimed at gender equality in education and activities including sports, is crucial for women's advancement. The WNBA's collective bargaining agreement, specifically Article XIII, Section 1(a), states that "Only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA." However, the document does not provide a definition for the term "woman" or "women." Notably, terms such as "transgender" and "gender identity" are not mentioned anywhere in the 409-page agreement, despite the inclusion of detailed definitions for numerous other terms.
A spokesperson for the WNBA acknowledged that the league has held meetings to discuss a "wide range of topics, including ongoing discussions on transgender athletes and the continued hate and vitriol directed at players online." The league stated it "strongly" denounces "bad-faith efforts to use these topics to demean or marginalize others."