Changes in Women-Only Gaming Tournaments
Recently, traditional women-only video game tournaments have experienced a significant shift, allowing men to compete and potentially claim substantial prizes.
The Fortnite tournament, known as the Milk Cup, was initially designed to broaden opportunities for women in competitive gaming. The organization behind it stated, “This is a space designed for women to compete at a high level and for big money.” However, just a year after its inception, men began to dominate the event.
“It was a crazy feeling to lift that trophy,” one participant remarked.
In the 2025 Milk Cup held in San Diego, California, the total prize pool was reportedly $300,000, with the top prize of $78,000. This year, the accolades went to a duo: Nina Fernandez from XSet and Vader, a transgender gamer who identifies as a woman. Notably, they had secured second place in the prior year.
Vader shared his excitement online, stating, “1st place ($78,000) in Milk Cup LAN—We did it.” Victorious, both Vader and Nina celebrated their achievement on social media platforms.
According to Vader’s online profile, he is listed as “18” years old and emphasizes using “she” pronouns. His other profiles detail that he was born in July 2007.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Vader expressed, “[Our win at Milk Cup] shows that I can be my authentic self and I’m not sorry about it. There’s space for everyone, so never give up.” He continued, “It was an incredible feeling to hoist that trophy. I want to prove people wrong.”
Vader added, “Anyone can participate in esports. Don’t let others discourage you. Ignore the comments—believe in yourself.”
While many online communities are supportive, it may come as a surprise that the tournament is sponsored by a nonprofit organization sanctioned by the United States Department of Agriculture.
The Milk Cup’s management, represented by the website “Gonna Need Milk,” claims to shine a spotlight on women in a space where “male athletes take center stage.” The organization is actively working to “raise awareness of gender inequality in sports,” which, interestingly, feels a bit contradictory given the recent developments.
Furthermore, the website notes that it is maintained and funded by MilkPEP (Milk Processor Education Program), under the auspices of the Fluid Milk Promotion Act of 1990.
Interestingly, MilkPEP boasts that the tournament is led by an entirely female team and is “funded by national milk companies.”
Despite reaching out, attempts to inquire with MilkPEP and Gonna Need Milk about the implications of a male winning an all-female tournament went unanswered. The USDA also received questions regarding whether including male gamers violated any federal orders, but they cited the “ongoing government shutdown” as a reason for their inability to respond promptly.
Both gamers Vader and Nina were also approached for comments regarding the inclusion of male competitors in female categories and any reactions to the ensuing backlash. However, they did not respond.
