Sophie Cunningham’s Bold Stance on Women’s Sports

Sophie Cunningham appeared to have it all. As a guard for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA, her popularity was sky-high. With five million Instagram followers, numerous brand deals, and even a feature in Sports Illustrated as a swimsuit model, Cunningham was clearly on an impressive trajectory.

However, everything changed during a July interview with ESPN when she stated her belief that biological men should be excluded from women’s sports and private spaces. Since then, she has faced significant backlash from activists on the far-left. Yet, she has remained resolute in her views.

“I said what I said,” Cunningham responded to reporters probing her stance. “I think it’s kind of common sense… it’s really important to protect children, especially little girls who are involved in that category.” She later reinforced her position, emphasizing the importance of Title IX and the protections it offers for women in sports, saying, “If Title IX and women’s sports weren’t protected, then you wouldn’t hear about any type of women in sport. And so, I think in the future, it’s just really important to protect.”

It seems most people agree with her perspective. A significant majority of Americans believe that biological males shouldn’t have access to female private spaces such as locker rooms, dorm rooms, or bathrooms. Additionally, nearly 80% of the population opposes biological males competing on women’s sports teams.

These statistics reflect a common understanding: biological males tend to have physical advantages over female competitors. Several organizations, including the United Nations and the American Parents Coalition (APC), have documented instances where biological males in female sports have deprived female athletes of titles, trophies, and even podium finishes. Sometimes, these situations have led to physical injuries.

Yet, you’d hardly gather that from the mainstream media’s coverage of Cunningham’s comments. Instead, the WNBA, the public, and various media outlets seem to be enabling a small but vocal group to intimidate her for simply stating what many consider the truth.

The hostility from Cunningham’s critics has made WNBA games feel less like professional sports and more like chaotic altercations. Just last week, she faced a dangerous foul that could have led to serious injury, and some referred to it as “karma.” She has been met with protests and boos at games, even earning the label of “MAGA Barbie.” But through all this, the attacks—physical, personal, and political—have not deterred her courage.

“I think that I am here to extend love,” Cunningham expressed. “But I also think that with love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in a sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men.”

Comments from athletes like Cunningham, as well as from former collegiate stars like Riley Gaines, hold substantial weight. Still, they should not be the only voices amplifying what is evidently a public consensus. It’s crucial for parents to support their bravery, rather than leaving them to fend for themselves as advocates for our daughters. We need to protect the future of women’s sports and ensure the safety, privacy, and opportunities for girls in our communities. Be it youth leagues, high schools, or college campuses, it’s essential for parents to speak up, defend their daughters, and not shy away from backlash in social circles. We can no longer afford to be the silent majority.

It’s appalling that someone would face backlash for defending women’s sports, Title IX, and the safety of female athletes. Equally concerning is how few have rallied to her defense, especially given the known public sentiment. Parents should reflect on why they’re not supporting her more vigorously. If more individuals spoke out, would Cunningham’s comments even seem so extraordinary?

As a former athlete and coach, I have witnessed firsthand the benefits that being part of a sports team can bring to young girls. These opportunities extend well beyond sports, equipping girls with confidence and life skills. When a boy takes a place on a team that should be available to a girl, that girl loses out on significant experiences during an important stage of her development. She misses chances to develop teamwork, forge friendships, establish healthy habits, and learn to navigate wins and losses gracefully. Allowing boys in female sports undermines the very opportunities these teams were established to provide.

Cunningham has taken a courageous stand for your daughters. Now, it’s time for parents, coaches, and the community to join her.