Megan Rapinoe supports Barbra Banda amid gender backlash
- Barbra Banda has faced gender-related questions after winning the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year award.
- Megan Rapinoe has defended Banda against criticism and congratulated her on her achievements.
- The controversy surrounding Banda's gender reflects broader tensions in women's sports.
In the UK, Barbra Banda, a Zambian soccer player, was named BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, a decision that has raised significant debate surrounding her gender. This award came shortly after it was revealed that Banda was excluded from Zambia's Africa Cup of Nations squad in 2022 due to concerns over her testosterone levels being higher than those allowed by the Confederation of African Football. Despite her exclusion, Banda made a notable impact by contributing to the Orlando Pride's success in the NWSL and delivering an impressive performance at the Paris Olympics. Her recognition by the BBC has ignited backlash, especially among women's rights groups and prominent figures like JK Rowling, who criticized the decision on social media. In response to these criticisms, Megan Rapinoe, former USA women's soccer captain, publicly supported Banda, applauding her talent and achievements. Rapinoe reassured Banda that she stands above those trying to undermine her success, emphasizing that her accomplishments are well-deserved. This situation reflects the ongoing tensions regarding gender identity in women's sports, exemplified by a similar controversy involving women's boxer Imane Khelif, who faced accusations relating to her biological sex following her Olympic wins. Khelif was disqualified from the World Championships after failing a gender eligibility test, which she and her supporters vehemently contested, asserting her identity as a woman despite unconfirmed claims regarding her biological sex.