WNBA player Sophie Cunningham has faced significant backlash for her public statements regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports. Cunningham stated that it is important to "protect young girls in the locker room" and that they "shouldn't have to go against biological men." This stance has drawn criticism and led to incidents such as fans being reportedly harassed to tears for displaying support for the player.
Payton McNabb, a former high school volleyball player who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a spike from a male athlete competing on an opposing girls' team, views the reaction to Cunningham's comments as indicative of a cultural shift. McNabb, whose athletic career was ended by the injury, argues that the focus on inclusion has sometimes overshadowed the potential risks to cisgender female athletes.
"The goalposts for what counts as supporting women have been moved by the very people claiming the mantle of women’s rights — including the women’s league that should be dedicated to women’s advancement in sports, something that is impossible if men are permitted in women’s athletic spaces," McNabb wrote, elaborating on her perspective. She also cited Megan Rapinoe's characterization of concerns about men in women's sports as a manufactured "wedge issue."
McNabb contrasted Cunningham's refusal to retract her statements with instances where public figures have apologized under pressure. "Despite not being a particularly political or partisan figure, she has taken a stand for women and girls like me who had no one advocating for us," McNabb stated. Cunningham has maintained her position, saying, "I said what I said. I think it’s kind of common sense… And I think I’ll always believe in that. I think it’s really important to protect children, and that’s little girls who are also involved in that category. I stand on what I said."
The controversy extends to broader discussions about fairness and safety in women's sports. McNabb expressed concern about the message sent to young girls, suggesting that they are often discouraged from voicing discomfort about sharing spaces or competing with biological males. She highlighted that the current climate can lead to young women being shamed for speaking up about issues that affect their opportunities and safety.
McNabb credited athletes like Cunningham for speaking out, noting that it is not easy, especially at the height of one's career. She argued that female-only sports are essential for women to pursue their athletic dreams and that policies should ensure fair competition. "It should never be controversial to protect women’s sports. Title IX exists because women deserve equal and fair opportunities. Beyond that, trans-identifying athletes are always welcome to play sports—but they must play on the team that corresponds with their sex," McNabb concluded.