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Sophie Cunningham is not retreating from remarks she made to ESPN this week regarding the participation of men in women’s sports. The WNBA player doubled down on her position ahead of Wednesday’s contest against the Sun, telling assembled reporters during a four-minute exchange that her comments represented straightforward logic and reflected her genuine convictions.
Following the on-court remarks, Cunningham used Instagram on Thursday to reinforce her message with a direct post that simply stated “I said what I said” accompanied by a saluting emoji. The Phoenix Mercury standout has made clear she intends to maintain her position without modification or apology.
During her ESPN interview, Cunningham elaborated on her concerns about fairness and safety in athletic spaces. “I never once said that I hate trans people,” she explained to the outlet. “I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men.”
Cunningham characterized her broader political views as moderate and nuanced. “I’m very much in the middle. I agree with things on both sides, disagree with things on both sides,” she stated. “That’s all I’ve ever said about my political beliefs. But people love to assume.”
The comments have generated considerable pushback from segments of the sports media and social media users. Despite the intensity of questioning and criticism that followed her initial remarks, Cunningham has signaled her unwillingness to be deterred from her stated position on the matter.
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