In recent days, Brittney Griner’s name has resurfaced in headlines—not for her athletic performance, but due to resurfacing speculation and misinformation about her gender identity. The WNBA star, who has long been in the public eye for both her dominant presence on the court and her advocacy off it, is once again the subject of unfounded rumors. It’s time for a reality check.
Brittney Griner is a cisgender woman—meaning she was assigned female at birth and identifies as female. She has been transparent about her life, her challenges, and her journey as one of the most prominent openly gay athletes in professional sports. Yet, despite her openness, false narratives questioning her gender continue to circulate, often rooted in stereotypes or misunderstandings about her physical appearance and athletic prowess.
These kinds of rumors are not only baseless but also harmful. They perpetuate stigma against both cisgender women who don’t conform to traditional gender norms and transgender individuals who deserve respect and dignity in all spaces—including professional sports. In Griner’s case, the speculation is particularly troubling given her long history of being scrutinized in ways many male athletes are not.
It’s important to separate fact from fiction, especially when public figures are involved. Brittney Griner has never stated she is anything but a woman, and any claims to the contrary are not supported by her own words or any verified information. She has spent years breaking barriers and building a legacy in women’s basketball, not just through her achievements, but also by showing resilience in the face of adversity.
As fans and observers, we owe it to athletes to focus on their contributions and respect their identities. Brittney Griner’s story is one of strength, talent, and authenticity—not scandal. Let’s celebrate her for who she is and the powerful mark she continues to leave on the game.
