Megan Rapinoe, a former U.S. soccer player, questioned the intentions behind attempts to exclude men from women’s sports.
On her podcast, she reacted to an opinion piece by Elizabeth Eddy, a player for Angel City FC, who advocated for clearer gender guidelines in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
“Are we really looking out for women in sports, or are we just skirting the issue, saying we’re concerned, we need to protect women in sports?” Rapinoe remarked. “I mean, we’re okay. There aren’t even any transgender players in the NWSL.” She found that sentiment rather disingenuous.
Rapinoe also mentioned former U.S. men’s soccer player Landon Donovan and his recent hairpiece, implying that she wanted to avoid mockery. She emphasized that transgender athletes participating in women’s sports is fundamentally about individuals feeling comfortable in their own skin.
“I was really moved by how relatable this narrative is, especially when you consider the fight for gay rights and the journey to being your true self, particularly for those who are gay or transgender,” Rapinoe stated. “How you feel about yourself, about your body, that really matters. Others’ opinions shouldn’t change that.”
“When we address gay rights, specifically transgender rights, we’re acknowledging how crucial it is for everyone to be comfortable in their own body, in the way they want to be,” she continued. “Often, what I’m conveying in this conversation is that it really doesn’t involve anyone else. It can be transformative and even life-saving. I think that’s really essential,” she added.
