National Women's Soccer League defends athlete who failed genetic sex test as players clash over gender rules

'Outnumbered' panelists discuss the potential new gene testing requirement for athletes who wish to compete in women's Olympic events, which would comply with President Donald Trump's executive order protecting female sports.

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) put out a statement Tuesday addressing a sudden controversy involving a player who previously failed a genetic test. 

The statement defended Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda, who was ruled ineligible to compete for Zambia in a 2022 World Cup-qualifying tournament after a test revealed Banda's natural testosterone levels were above those allowed by the Confederation of African Football.

The statement also comes after Angel City FC's Elizabeth Eddy published a New York Post op-ed last week calling for the NWSL to adopt a stricter gender eligibility policy. 

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Barbra Banda of Zambia celebrates after scoring the team's second goal from the penalty spot during the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group C match between Costa Rica and Zambia at Waikato Stadium on July 31, 2023, in Hamilton, New Zealand.  (Hannah Peters - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

"Barbra Banda is a top player in the NWSL. Barbra's selection to the FIFPRO World XI, a distinction voted on exclusively by her peers from across the global game, is a testament to her extraordinary talent, relentless work ethic, and impact on our sports and league," the statement said. 

"Her contributions to the Orlando Pride and NWSL have been transformative. Any harassment or hateful attacks toward Barbra are unacceptable and have no place in our sport, league or communities. We stand unequivocally with Barbra and with every NWSL player." 

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