Sophie Cunningham faced backlash after trans athlete comments
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 9, 2026, 10:10 AM
Last updated Oct 9, 2026
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham sparked controversy this summer when she expressed opposition to trans women competing in women's sports. Following her remarks, former teammate Sydney Colson criticized Cunningham during a podcast, telling her to 'shut the [expletive] up' and claiming 'nobody respects' her. Colson's comments reflect a growing division within the WNBA over the issue, which has prompted strong reactions from both supporters and opponents of Cunningham's views. Protests at Fever games have erupted, and critiques have emerged for other players silent on the matter. The WNBA continues to deal with the implications of this debate, highlighting the tension surrounding gender identity in sports.
- •Sophie Cunningham opposed trans women in women's sports this summer.
- •Sydney Colson criticized Cunningham's comments on her podcast.
- •Colson said Cunningham's views harmed those she claims to care about.
- •Protests have occurred at Indiana Fever games over the issue.
- •The WNBA faces challenges related to gender identity debates.
- 10:10 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Nobody respects you’: Sophie Cunningham told to ‘shut up’ by former teammate
"Over the summer, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham ignited a high-profile and far-reaching conversation throughout the WNBA and the country after she spoke out against trans women competing in women’s sports. Now, one of Cunningham’s former teammates is speaking out against her and her comments. During a recent podcast appearance, former Indiana Fever guard Sydney…
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