Fighting Transgender Sports Ban is ‘Totally Misogynistic’: Riley Gaines
In a recent discussion about the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a ban on transgender participation in sports, former NCAA All-American Riley Gaines expressed her thoughts, describing the challenge against biological sex in athletics as “insane.” She firmly stated that men should not compete in women’s sports, labeling the protests against this stance as “misogynistic.” Additionally, she supported female athletes’ rights and fair competition, a viewpoint that coincided with comments made by Education Secretary Linda McMahon. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities surrounding women’s sports.
As a highly accomplished athlete—three-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion—I’ve had the opportunity to compete and represent both Canada and the United States. Throughout my career, it’s clear that women’s sports can create incredible opportunities and foster confidence.
The Olympics, a spectacle known worldwide, showcases years of hard work. While the excitement is palpable as medals are hung around necks, it’s the moments before the race that often weigh heavy. The reality is that all that preparation boils down to merely seconds of performance, reminding me how fortunate I am to be part of it all.
None of these achievements would have been possible without the efforts of women who fought fiercely for their right to compete in their own categories. Recently, the Supreme Court reaffirmed Title IX’s intent, maintaining its focus on protecting biological women in sports.
Historically, women’s sports were established precisely to keep men out. This exclusivity enables young girls to earn spots on teams, vie for championships, secure scholarships, and chase dreams that were simply unavailable before Title IX came into play.
Interestingly, sports aren’t solely measured in gold medals. Just placing in a competition can significantly impact someone’s future. Justice Kavanaugh made an insightful point about sports being a zero-sum game; when one competitor gains an opportunity, another loses it. Unfortunately, many girls have seen their chances vanish due to men competing against them, which, frankly, is shocking that it could even happen.
As athletes, it’s our duty to uphold the values and traditions of women’s sports. Fairness isn’t about erasing boundaries but maintaining an objective line that delineates gender categories based on biology rather than self-identified gender. Hence, it’s crucial that Title IX protects opportunities for girls founded on biological sex.
Concerned about the direction the conversation was heading, I felt compelled to take a stand against the transgender sports issue.
This particular victory felt monumental. We united, persisted, and faced off against numerous insults and accusations, all while advocating for our rights, just as women have historically done.
Looking ahead, there will be girls ready to stand on that starting line, unaware of legal debates or Supreme Court rulings. Their focus will simply be on the race.
My hope is that those aspiring female athletes—whether in high school or dreaming of the Olympics—will continue to have the chance to compete in a category established for women, specifically for biological women, thereby testing the limits of their capabilities and realizing the fruits of their hard work.
Last week’s ruling was crucial in preserving opportunities that were established long before me. If my efforts have had any impact on advancing this cause, then that, I believe, is a legacy I can be proud of.
