Episode Details

The debate over transgender athletes in women's sport has returned to the spotlight after WNBA player Sophie Cunningham defended her support for restricting transgender women from competing in women's sports.

Cunningham faced criticism after telling ESPN she believes transgender athletes should not compete in women's sports in order to protect opportunities for female athletes. Despite a backlash online and hostile receptions from some crowds, she has stood by her comments, saying, "I said what I said," and describing her position as "common sense."

The controversy has reignited a wider debate over fairness, inclusion and safety in women's sport. Critics have accused Cunningham of discrimination, while supporters argue that protecting female sporting categories is compatible with supporting the rights and dignity of transgender people.

As governing bodies around the world continue to review eligibility rules for transgender athletes, the debate over fairness, inclusion and the future of women's sport shows little sign of fading.

Piers Morgan is joined by tennis and female sports legend Martina Navratilova, transgender commentator Blaire White, comedian and commentator Jeff Dye, sports commentator Andrea Richmond and pro-trans activist Helen Webberley to to debate one of the most contentious issues in modern sport.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:27) Martina Navratilova joins the show

(04:05) Martina reacts to Sophie Cunningham being vilified

(06:55) Women collectively calling for a ban

(08:50) Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve wearing a “trans kids belong” t-shirt

(12:02) Piers asks Martina how many men she would’ve beaten in Tennis

(13:58) Caitlin Clark’s neutrality on the issue

(16:30) Aryna Sabalenka’s comments on biological advantages of men

(20:30) Megan Rapinoe’s comments on The View 

(24:05) The panel reacts to Martina Navratilova’s interview with Piers

(27:46) Should we have gender-neutral Olympics?

(31:00) Blaire White on supporting Sophie Cunningham

(35:14) French trans basketball player Julie Tétart’s 21 point average per game

(42:52) Should Caitlin Clark speak out about this matter?

(44:31) Piers challenges Andrea Richmond on women’s rights and safety

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