During an interview with Piers Morgan, Aryna Sabalenka ignited a major debate by openly opposing the participation of transgender athletes in women’s tournaments. The Belarusian star, who held the No. 1 ranking for much of the season, stated that such inclusion harms players who compete from youth categories under exclusively female parameters.
Sabalenka is preparing for the highly anticipated Battle of the Sexes against Nick Kyrgios, and the topic emerged when she was asked about Martina Navratilova’s recent comments. Her answer was direct and uncompromising. “I have nothing against them, but I feel they still have a huge advantage over women. I don’t think it’s fair for women to face a biological man,” said the US Open champion.
A statement that triggered immediate reactions
According to Firstsportz, her argument was based on physical and historical differences in athletic development. “They have worked their entire life to reach their limit, and then she has to face a man who is biologically much stronger,” she added. Kyrgios agreed and publicly supported her position.
Aryna Sabalenka está en contra de que las mujeres transgénero compitan en el tenis femenino:
🗣 “Es una pregunta complicada. Creo que no es justo que las mujeres se enfrenten a un hombre biológico. No tengo nada en contra, pero siento que aún tienen una gran ventaja sobre las… pic.twitter.com/V7NQPh00T4— Tiempo De Tenis (@Tiempodetenis1) December 9, 2025
Tension escalated when Marta Kostyuk’s name surfaced. The Ukrainian had implied that Sabalenka herself has a biological advantage due to her size and physical structure. Sabalenka responded firmly. “It’s so funny that we are even talking about comments from someone like Marta Kostyuk, but all I hear are excuses.” She also emphasized that Kostyuk has visible strength and comparable physical attributes.
Morgan teased Sabalenka over how she handles criticism, suggesting her bikini posts were a subtle message. She laughed it off, insisting her competitive level comes from discipline rather than external factors.
The sporting contrast reinforces her position. Sabalenka dominated the season, reaching nine finals and winning titles at the US Open, Miami, Brisbane, and Madrid. Kostyuk, meanwhile, finished with a 27–20 record and no trophies.
The debate will remain active within the tennis circuit. The issue intersects scientific criteria, federation regulations, and perceptions of competitive fairness. Sabalenka’s comments reflect a viewpoint shared by a significant sector of professional sports, though they raise ongoing social and ethical questions.
