WNBA star Sophie Cunningham has ignited a debate on social media regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports. Cunningham expressed her view that the integrity of women's sports and the protection of young girls necessitate policies that prevent biological males from competing against biological females.
In an interview with ESPN, Cunningham stated, "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."
Her comments have garnered support from various figures, including Republican politicians like Ted Cruz and Eric Schmitt, as well as athletes and activists associated with the "save women's sports" movement, such as Riley Gaines, Jennifer Sey, and Martina Navratilova.
Cunningham's stance has also drawn backlash from those who advocate for the inclusion of transgender women in women's sports. Some social media users have drawn comparisons between Cunningham's position and that of Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, who has publicly stated her opposition to bans on transgender athletes in women's sports.
This is not the first time Cunningham's views on the issue have drawn public attention. In March 2022, she faced criticism for retweeting a post from CBS Sports host Josh Pate concerning the controversy surrounding transgender swimmer Lia Thomas competing on the women's collegiate team. At the time, Pate's tweet read, "Female collegiate athletes deserve so much better than this." In response to the backlash from that retweet, Cunningham issued a statement affirming her support for all individuals and athletes, regardless of race, religion, sexual preference, or gender identity, while emphasizing fair opportunities for everyone to compete.
Over the past year, Cunningham has become a notable figure, particularly among conservative audiences. In late June, following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding state laws restricting biological males from participating in women's sports, Riley Gaines, who competed against Lia Thomas, called for elite female athletes like Cunningham and Caitlin Clark to speak out in support of protecting women's sports.