ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith has chimed in on all the debates regarding transgender inclusion in women’s sports. Less than a week ago, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines exchanged words on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Biles accused Gaines of being a “sore loser” and suggested she should uplift the transgender community. “You’re truly sick, all of this campaigning because you lost a race. Straight up sore loser. You should be uplifting the trans community and perhaps finding a way to make sports inclusive OR creating a new avenue where trans feel safe in sports. Maybe a transgender category IN ALL sports!! But instead… You bully them… One things for sure is no one in sports is safe with you around!!!!!” Biles wrote.
Gaines immediately fired back at Biles with this message: “This is actually so disappointing. It’s not my job or the job of any woman to figure out how to include men in our spaces. You can uplift men stealing championships in women’s sports with YOUR platform. Men don’t belong in women’s sports and I say that with my full chest.”
During an episode of “The Stephen A. Smith Show” this week, Gaines discussed the current state of women’s sports. She explained why she’s against transgender athletes competing against biological females. Smith revealed that he believes transgender athletes should compete against each other. “In other words, compete against your own,” Smith said. “If you’re a man transitioning into being a woman, compete against other men transitioning into women. It shouldn’t be you infiltrating women’s sports in that way. I’ve always agreed with that position.”
When Sports and Identity Collide
Let’s face it—sports have never been just about the game. They’re cultural battlegrounds, stages for larger societal debates. And recently, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith jumped headfirst into one of the most heated topics in modern sports: transgender athletes. Known for his unfiltered takes, Smith didn’t hold back this time either. But what exactly did he say? Why is it causing waves across social media and locker rooms alike? And more importantly—what does this mean for the future of sports? Let’s break it down.
Who Is Stephen A. Smith?
The Face (and Voice) of ESPN
Stephen A. Smith isn’t just any sports analyst. He’s the voice of “First Take”, the face that’s often seen yelling (passionately, of course) into the camera with hot takes that spark debate across the sports world.
Why People Listen to Him
Love him or hate him, Smith commands attention. He’s unafraid to tackle sensitive issues, often being the first to address topics others tiptoe around. And this time, he zeroed in on transgender athletes in sports—specifically trans women competing in female categories.
What Did Stephen A. Smith Say?
“I’m Not Trying to Be Insensitive”
Stephen A. prefaced his comments with this phrase—a classic setup for something that might stir the pot.
He stated, “Transgender women should not be competing against biological women in professional sports. Period.” He emphasized fairness, biology, and protecting opportunities for cisgender women.
Why It’s Making Headlines
This opinion isn’t new, but coming from Smith—a mainstream, influential figure—it hit different. It immediately sparked backlash, praise, and intense debate online and in sports communities.
The Debate Around Transgender Athletes in Sports
A Complex Collision of Identity and Biology
Transgender athletes challenge traditional gender lines in sports. Advocates argue for inclusion and equal opportunity. Critics raise concerns about competitive fairness.
Smith planted his flag firmly on one side—and now, the firestorm is spreading.
The Science Behind the Debate
What Biology Says
Biological males, on average, have higher muscle mass, bone density, and oxygen-carrying capacity than biological females. Even after hormone therapy, some of these advantages persist.
This is the crux of the fairness argument—and Smith leaned heavily on this data during his segment.
What Critics Say About That Science
Critics argue that focusing on biology alone is reductive. They emphasize that not all transgender women have athletic advantages, and blanket bans can be discriminatory.
Public Reactions to Smith’s Statement
Praise from Traditionalists
Many applauded Smith for “saying what others won’t.” Conservative commentators and athletes echoed his stance, calling it a “common sense” approach to protecting women’s sports.
Backlash from LGBTQ+ Advocates
On the flip side, LGBTQ+ organizations condemned the statement as harmful and exclusionary. Some even called for ESPN to issue an apology or disciplinary action.
Is Smith’s View New in Sports Commentary?
A Growing Trend Among Commentators
Smith isn’t alone. Other major voices—like Joe Rogan, Martina Navratilova, and Caitlyn Jenner—have all made similar statements. A growing number of former athletes and sports insiders are questioning the current policies.
What Are the Current Rules for Transgender Athletes?
NCAA and Olympic Guidelines
Most organizations, including the IOC and NCAA, have specific requirements for transgender athletes—often involving testosterone suppression over a set period.
But those rules are constantly evolving as science, policy, and public sentiment shift.
Smith’s Call for Policy Change
Advocating for Gender-Exclusive Categories
Smith suggested either a return to strict gender divisions based on biological sex—or the introduction of new categories for transgender athletes. He called it “the only way to ensure fairness.”
It’s a radical idea, but not unheard of.
Why This Conversation Isn’t Going Away
More Trans Athletes Are Rising
From swimmers to sprinters, transgender athletes are making headlines—and not just for their performance, but for what they represent.
With more visibility comes more debate.
The Cultural Significance of Smith’s StanceMainstreaming a Polarizing Opinion
Stephen A. Smith saying this on national television does more than just spark comments—it normalizes the debate. Whether you agree or not, it’s no longer a fringe conversation.
It’s mainstream.
What It Means for ESPN
The Risk of Taking a Side
ESPN typically avoids political controversy. Smith’s statement might force the network to clarify its stance—or double down on his right to express personal opinions.
Can We Talk About This Without the Outrage?
The Need for Nuance
Most discussions around transgender athletes quickly spiral into outrage or cancellation. Smith called for “respectful, science-based conversations”—a rarity in today’s media climate.
And frankly, he has a point.
Stephen A. Smith: Courageous or Careless?
Depends on Who You Ask
Some see him as brave for speaking his truth. Others view it as reckless and lacking empathy. Either way, he’s reignited a debate that’s far from over.
The Bigger Picture: Identity vs. Fairness
A Moral Dilemma for Modern Sports
At its core, this debate isn’t just about testosterone or trophies. It’s about what fairness really means—and how we balance that with identity, dignity, and inclusion.
Conclusion: Why This Debate Isn’t Ending Anytime Soon
Stephen A. Smith’s comments lit a fire under a debate that’s already emotionally charged. Whether you agree or not, it’s clear: we’re entering a new era in sports, one where identity and performance collide like never before.
The real question is—how do we move forward with empathy and fairness? That’s the tightrope we all have to walk.
