ESPN broadcaster Sam Ponder publicly supported her colleague Sage Steele after soccer star Megan Rapinoe criticized Steele's stance on transgender athletes in women's sports. In a recent interview, Rapinoe suggested that Steele and others who advocate for fairness in women's sports are actually promoting discrimination against transgender individuals. She also drew a parallel between comedian Dave Chappelle's jokes about transgender people and acts of violence.
Rapinoe dismissed concerns about fairness and competitive balance as "nonsense," asserting that transgender athletes gaining an unfair advantage in women's sports "simply isn't occurring." Ponder countered this view on social media, arguing that Steele's position shouldn't be equated with inciting violence. She emphasized the importance of open discussion and debate on the topic.
Steele echoed Ponder's sentiments, highlighting the need to prioritize facts and scientific evidence over emotional responses. She has previously voiced support for former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines, who advocates for maintaining fair competition in women's sports. Steele has characterized the current situation with transgender athletes in women's sports as "absurd," "heartbreaking," and "difficult to witness."
This isn't the first time Steele has defended Ponder; she previously spoke out against criticism of Ponder's similar views. Rapinoe, conversely, stated she would welcome a transgender woman on the U.S. women's national team, emphasizing her belief that trans women are women and should not be excluded. She further argued that concerns about transgender athletes displacing cisgender women are inherently transphobic.
Rapinoe was among a group of professional athletes who formally opposed the Protection of Girls and Women in Sports Act, contending that the legislation would prevent women and girls from experiencing the physical and mental health benefits of sports.
