In the wake of Sophie Cunningham‘s comments against the inclusion of trans athletes in women’s sports, one of the world’s top tennis stars has lent her support to the issue.
Aryna Sabalenka, who is ranked No. 1 in the world, firmly believes that trans athletes should not be allowed to compete in women’s sports.
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World No. 1 Tennis Star Sides With Sophie Cunningham on Trans-Athlete Controversy
Cunningham revealed last month that she did not support transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. The comments have since transcended sports into a broader issue, and fan demonstrations have also taken place outside WNBA arenas before Fever games.
Sabalenka has now weighed in on the debate, making it clear that she supports Cunningham’s stance. During her press conference ahead of the Canadian Open, the Belarusian shared that she does not think trans athletes should be allowed to compete in women’s sports.
Her comments come in the wake of the WTA announcing an updated women’s eligibility policy that requires a one-time SRY-gene screening for all players. The move parallels measures the International Olympic Committee adopted earlier this year.
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“I think it’s really important to keep fairness in our tour. It’s obvious that biologically, men are way stronger than women. So I feel like it would be not really fair for women to compete against biological men,” Sabalenka said.
Sabalenka further expressed her support for the decision, calling it fair. The policy aims to help promote “equal athletic opportunities and maintain fair competition” in women’s tennis.
“I support [this decision]. But for me, I am focused on myself, my goals. If they want to test us all, I’m happy to do that. It’s pretty fair, and let’s keep it that way,” she added.
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Cunningham said her stance stemmed from a desire to protect women’s sports. She has received significant backing for her stance from right-wing activists, who have held rallies in support of her outside WNBA arenas.
Fans with opposing views have also protested outside arenas, and clashes occurred before Sunday’s WNBA game between the Fever and Minnesota Lynx.
Meanwhile, the protests are expected to resume this week when the Fever face the Las Vegas Aces in Indiana on Thursday. Activist and former gymnast Jennifer Sey signaled her plans to organize more demonstrations in support of Cunningham, starting with Thursday’s game.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.
