WNBA player Sophie Cunningham has publicly defended her recent comments regarding the participation of biological men in women's sports, stating that she "said what I said" and believes her stance is "common sense."
Cunningham's remarks, initially made in an ESPN interview, have generated significant discussion and criticism from various sports media outlets. She has since reiterated her position on social media and in interviews with reporters.
In a statement on Instagram, Cunningham posted "I said what I said" with a saluting emoji, directly addressing her critics. She told ESPN that she believes in extending love but also honesty, and that she wants to protect young girls in locker rooms and in sports from competing against biological men.
Cunningham clarified her position, stating, "I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans. And I'm like, 'I never once said that.' I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn't have to go against biological men."
She described her views as being "in the middle," agreeing and disagreeing with aspects on both sides of various issues, and noted that people often make assumptions about her political beliefs.
Despite the controversy and extensive questioning from reporters, Cunningham has remained steadfast in her statements. The player's comments have positioned her as a prominent voice in ongoing discussions about gender and sports, attracting both support and criticism across the sports landscape.