Elon Musk, the billionaire tech mogul and owner of X (formerly Twitter), has once again reignited a fierce debate on social media and beyond. On Wednesday night, Musk posted a statement that resonated across the worlds of sports, politics, and culture: “No biological male should compete in women’s sports.” The comment, shared with his more than 180 million followers, immediately went viral, generating intense support and condemnation, and sparking one of the most contentious debates of the year.
A statement that set the Internet on fire
The controversy began when Musk responded to a viral video showing a transgender athlete dominating a women’s sports competition. Quoting the video, Musk wrote, “This is not fair. It makes a mockery of women’s efforts and their biological reality. There must be limits based on science and fairness. Period.”
Within minutes, Musk’s post went viral online, racking up more than 50 million views and tens of thousands of replies. Followers praised Musk for “saying what everyone is afraid to say,” while critics accused him of promoting transphobia and fomenting division.
The debate quickly transcended X and entered mainstream media coverage, with headlines around the world highlighting Musk’s comments and the ensuing firestorm.
Supporters applaud, critics condemn
Musk’s statement was met with applause from some conservative commentators and athletes who have spoken out against the inclusion of transgender women in women’s sports. Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and outspoken critic of transgender participation in women’s sports, publicly thanked Musk for his stance. “Thank you, Elon, for standing up for fairness and truth,” Gaines posted, echoing the views of many who believe biological sex should determine eligibility in women’s competitions.
Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and allies quickly condemned Musk’s comments, calling them harmful and irresponsible. GLAAD, a leading LGBTQ+ rights organization, issued a statement saying, “This type of rhetoric endangers transgender people and reinforces harmful stereotypes. Sports should be inclusive and based on skill, not outdated ideas about biology.”
Transgender athletes and their advocates argue that such statements not only misrepresent science but also contribute to a hostile environment that puts trans people at risk. “Trans women are women,” said one advocate. “We deserve the same opportunities to compete and feel a part of something.”
