Women’s soccer faces plenty of serious threats. So why the panic about trans players? | Lesley Ryder

The GuardianTuesday, November 4, 2025 at 11:00:31 AM
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Women’s soccer faces plenty of serious threats. So why the panic about trans players? | Lesley Ryder

Women’s soccer faces plenty of serious threats. So why the panic about trans players? | Lesley Ryder

The recent controversy involving Elizabeth Eddy of Angel City FC highlights the ongoing tensions in women's soccer regarding transgender players. Eddy faced backlash from her teammates after publishing an op-ed that addressed the National Women's Soccer League's (NWSL) decision to drop its inclusion policy for transgender athletes. This incident reflects a broader debate about inclusivity in sports and the challenges women's soccer faces in balancing diverse perspectives within teams. The reactions to Eddy's comments reveal a significant divide among players and stakeholders, raising important questions about the future participation of transgender athletes in the sport. The situation underscores the complexities involved in navigating policies that affect team dynamics and inclusivity. As the NWSL moves forward without its previous inclusion policy, the controversy surrounding Eddy's stance exemplifies the broader struggles within women's soccer to address these sensitive issues. This episode serves as a microcosm of the larger societal debate on transgender participation in competitive sports.

— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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