Brittney Griner has long been a standout figure in women’s basketball, known not only for her athletic talent but also for her openness about her personal life. As one of the first openly gay athletes in the WNBA, Griner has faced both praise and invasive speculation. Among the persistent rumors is the claim questioning her gender at birth—a rumor that has circulated for years and continues to resurface across social media platforms.
To set the record straight: Brittney Griner is a cisgender woman. She was born female and identifies as such. She has never claimed otherwise. The rumors suggesting she was born male are unfounded and rooted in harmful stereotypes often directed at women who don’t fit into narrow expectations of femininity. Griner’s height, voice, and physical dominance on the court have often been unfairly weaponized to fuel these baseless claims.
These types of questions aren’t just invasive—they’re part of a broader pattern where strong, successful women, especially in sports, are subjected to intense scrutiny about their appearance and identity. For Griner, who has publicly shared her experiences with bullying and discrimination, such speculation is not just hurtful but also distracts from her achievements as an elite athlete and advocate.
Griner’s focus remains on her game, her activism, and using her platform to uplift others. She has consistently shown courage—whether it’s advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, speaking out on social justice issues, or returning to the game after challenging life experiences. Rather than letting rumors define her narrative, she continues to lead by example on and off the court.
In a time when public figures are under constant digital surveillance, it’s important to remember the value of truth, dignity, and empathy. Brittney Griner’s story is one of strength, not scandal—and her legacy will be defined by her accomplishments, not unfounded internet
gossip.
