Martina Navratilova condemns podium refusal of Oregon high school girls with trans athlete

In the United States, two high school girls from Oregon, Reese Eckard and Alexa Anderson, caused a stir after they declined to share the podium with a transgender athlete during a state championship event on June 2, 2025. The incident occurred during the girls' high jump competition where Eckard secured fourth place and Anderson finished third, while a trans athlete placed fifth. Footage circulated showing an official confronting the girls about their decision, which sparked social media reactions, including from tennis legend Martina Navratilova. Navratilova expressed her support for the girls' stance, emphasizing the challenges that women and girls face in a patriarchal society, stating on social media that women are punished for their actions in a misogynistic world. She has been vocal about the need to protect women's sports. The controversy surrounding this incident highlights ongoing debates regarding gender identity and sports, particularly the participation of transgender athletes in competitions designated for women. Furthermore, Navratilova criticized lawmakers, particularly Democrats, for not supporting the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which aimed to prohibit transgender women from competing in women's sports. She initially called for stronger legislative measures to protect biological females in sports, reflecting a deep concern among some athletes regarding fairness in competition. The conversation surrounding this topic has become increasingly contentious, with strong opinions on both sides. Many argue that allowing transgender athletes to compete in women's sports undermines the progress made for female athletes, while others advocate for inclusivity and equal rights for transgender individuals. The Oregon high school event is part of a larger national conversation that continues to unfold.