The controversy over fairness in women’s sports erupted once again when two former swimmers, Riley Gaines and Sharron Davies, publicly criticized a transgender waterman and the National College Athletic Association (NCAA). The two alleged that allowing this athlete to compete in a women’s division is an act of “sex-baiting,” harming the fairness and opportunities of other female athletes. The incident has sparked a wave of fierce debate on sports and social media, putting the NCAA in the spotlight.
Riley Gaines, a former swimming star at the University of Kentucky, didn’t hesitate to express outrage. She said the NCAA had failed to protect the rights of female athletes by allowing a former male athlete to join the women’s team without a thorough evaluation. “This isn’t a personal issue, but rather about honesty in sports,” Gaines said in a social media post, attracting millions of views. She emphasized that the physical differences between men and women, even after hormone treatment, still create an unfair advantage, especially in rowing, which requires strength and durability.
Sharron Davies, the British Olympic swimming champion, also expressed her support for Gaines. With extensive experience and many years of campaigning for fairness in sports, Davies called the NCAA policy “a step backward for feminism.” In an interview with British media, she argued that ignoring biological factors in sports is an injustice to athletes who have lived their entire lives. “We can’t pretend the gender gap doesn’t exist. It’s science, not an opinion,” Davies stated, calling on sports organizations to review their rules regarding transgender athletes.
The rowing athletes at the center of the controversy, whose official identity was not officially announced by the NCAA, are said to be transgender and meet the hormone treatment requirements prescribed by the association. However, both Gaines and Davies argue that these standards are not strict enough to ensure fairness. They point out that even after reducing testosterone, athletes who have undergone male puberty still retain muscle, bone structure, and overall strength—critical factors in competitive sports like sailing.
The NCAA’s reaction to this wave of criticism has been rather reserved. On short notice, the association stated that it was complying with current regulations and was committed to creating a “fair and integrated” competition environment. However, this statement does not alleviate the dissatisfaction of many people, including other female athletes who feel their voices are being overlooked. Some colleagues of rowing athletes have spoken out anonymously, expressing discomfort but concern about being criticized if they openly protested.
This controversy isn’t the first time the NCAA has faced questions about policies related to transgender athletes. Previously, the case of Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer, has also sparked similar debates, with Gaines serving as one of the leaders of the movement. This incident intensified the issue, as many called for comprehensive reforms in how sports organizations handle the participation of transgender athletes, especially in personal or senior team competitions.
While Gaines and Davies received strong support from the public, they also faced considerable criticism. Some believe their views lack empathy and fail to recognize the right of transgender athletes to play. Organizations supporting transgender rights have condemned Gaines and Davies’ statements, calling them “discrimination” and calling for more constructive dialogue. However, both former athletes are consistent, emphasizing that their goals are not personal attacks but rather to protect justice for all.
This incident is raising bigger questions about the future of women’s sports and the balance between integration and competitiveness. As tournaments continue to take place, pressure is mounting on the NCAA to offer a clear solution, both respecting the athletes’ identities and ensuring equal opportunities for the playground. Meanwhile, the story of this rower remains in the spotlight, with Gaines and Davies leading an uncompromising battle to protect what they believe is right.
