Elizabeth Eddy Faces Backlash for Alleged Transphobic, Racist Op-Ed

Elizabeth Eddy of Angel City FC is facing significant backlash after publishing an opinion piece in the New York Post. Her article has been criticized by teammates for containing “transphobic and racist” language.

Background on Eddy’s Career

Eddy has had an extensive 11-year career in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She participated in three NWSL Championships, secured three regular-season titles, and won one International Champions Cup. Her writing reflects on the evolution of women’s soccer, pointing out how it has transformed from being live-streamed on YouTube to securing a $240 million television contract.

Controversial Claims on Women’s Sports

In her op-ed, Eddy emphasizes the need to protect women’s rights and ensure competitive fairness. She references recent controversies in sports such as swimming and track and field, suggesting that these highlight a lack of standards for transgender athletes. Eddy proposed that the NWSL should establish clear criteria for women’s participation in the sport, recommending that athletes either be assigned female at birth or pass an SRY gene test.

Reactions from Teammates

• Team captains Sarah Gorden and Angelina Anderson publicly disagreed with Eddy’s views.
• They expressed concern over the transphobic and racist undertones in her writing.
• Their statement clarified that Eddy’s opinion does not reflect the team’s beliefs.

NWSL’s Response

The NWSL addressed the situation through a spokesperson, emphasizing that the league is dedicated to working with the NWSL Players Association on policy changes. They reaffirmed their commitment to inclusion, trust, and transparency in the league’s processes.

Angel City FC’s Stance

In response to the controversy, Angel City FC released a statement highlighting their values. They asserted that while individuals have the right to express their opinions, these views do not necessarily represent the organization as a whole. They reiterated their commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging.

As the debate continues, it underscores the challenges and complexities surrounding discussions about transgender athletes in women’s sports. The situation remains fluid, as various stakeholders are likely to weigh in on this matter moving forward.