Sophie Cunningham draws support and backlash for trans athlete comments
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 7:03 PM
Last updated Jul 24, 2026
Sophie Cunningham of the WNBA's Indiana Fever has generated widespread discussion following remarks about transgender athletes, stating her desire to protect young girls in sports. Her comments received support from figures like President Donald Trump and Stephen A. Smith but also faced backlash from fans and fellow athletes. Cunningham reinforced her stance in media interviews, emphasizing the need for protections for biological women in sports. Despite the criticism, she maintained that her beliefs are centered around safeguarding young girls. The controversy continues to unfold as reactions from both sides remain strong.
- •Cunningham expresses desire to protect young girls in sports from transgender competitors.
- •Her remarks received praise from Trump and Stephen A. Smith.
- •Immediate backlash arose from fans and sports writers following her comments.
- •Cunningham stood by her beliefs in media interviews despite criticism.
- •The situation remains contentious as reactions continue to emerge.
- 7:03 PMYahoo Sports — Trump stans Sophie Cunningham for trans athletes comment, and he's not alone
- 4:27 AMThe Washington Post — Trump officials tout Sophie Cunningham as role model on trans issues - The Washington Post
"The White House joins Stephen A. Smith, Martina Navratilova and the anti-trans internet in applauding the WNBA star for saying she wants "to protect young girls in a locker room" from "biological men."
"The president agrees with the WNBA player’s comments that transgender athletes should not participate in women’s sports, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 24, 2026, 7:03 PMTrump stans Sophie Cunningham for trans athletes comment, and he's not alone
The White House joins Stephen A. Smith, Martina Navratilova and the anti-trans internet in applauding the WNBA star for saying she wants "to protect young girls in a locker room" from "biological men."
- The Washington PostJul 24, 2026, 4:27 AMTrump officials tout Sophie Cunningham as role model on trans issues - The Washington Post
The president agrees with the WNBA player’s comments that transgender athletes should not participate in women’s sports, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
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