A significant majority of Americans, 73%, expressed discomfort with transgender athletes competing on sports teams that do not align with their sex at birth, according to a Pew Research Center analysis released Tuesday. The poll found broad consensus on the issue, with both Republicans and Democrats largely sharing this sentiment.
Only 13% of U.S. adults surveyed reported being extremely or very comfortable with transgender athletes competing against those whose gender identity matches their birth sex. An additional 14% stated they were somewhat comfortable.
The discomfort spans the political spectrum, with 91% of conservatives and 55% of progressives indicating they are uncomfortable with the practice. Similar divisions were observed across genders, with 77% of men and 69% of women expressing discomfort. Racial demographics also showed comparable results, with 75% of white individuals, 67% of Hispanic individuals, 68% of Black individuals, and 68% of Asian individuals reporting discomfort.
Age also played a role, with older adults being more likely to express unease. Among those 65 and over, 80% were uncomfortable, while a majority of 60% of adults aged 18-29 also indicated they did not want transgender athletes on teams not matching their sex at birth.
The findings emerge as the participation of transgender athletes in sports, particularly transgender women in women's sports, continues to be a prominent issue. Recently, WNBA star Sophie Cunningham faced backlash after stating in a profile that she supported restricting transgender women from competing in women's sports. While some fellow athletes have voiced support for Cunningham's stance, she has encountered boos and protests at away games. In response, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve wore a "Trans Kids Belong" T-shirt during a game against Cunningham's team on August 1.