Megan Rapinoe issues passionate defence of transgender inclusion in women's sports

United States star Megan Rapinoe has made it clear she is "100% supportive" of trans inclusion in women's sports, suggesting those debating the matter have been looking at it the wrong way.

The veteran, who co-captained the United States Women's National Team in 2019 as they won a second successive World Cup, has been a loud voice on a number of social justice issues. She has been among the biggest champions of gender equality in sports, including helping fight for equal pay for men's and women's international teams, and has been a consistent advocate for trans rights.

Rapinoe's comments come after trans cyclist Emily Bridges spoke up about physical threats which have come her way since Prime Minister Boris Johnson made comments about trans athletes. The footballer has called on people to take a step back, and attempted to myth-bust while speaking against a backdrop of legislation regarding trans people in a number of US states.

"I’m 100% supportive of trans inclusion," Rapinoe told TIME. "People do not know very much about it. We’re missing almost everything.

"Frankly, I think what a lot of people know is versions of the right’s talking points because they’re very loud. They’re very consistent, and they’re relentless.

"At the highest level, there is regulation. In collegiate sports, there is regulation. And at the Olympic and professional level. It’s not like it’s a free-for-all where everyone’s just doing whatever."

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