Story perspectives

Debate Ignites on Transgender Athletes in Women's Sports

4/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Stephen A. Smith, ESPN commentator, and Sage Steele, podcast host, discussed transgender athletes in women's sports on Steele's podcast.
The conversation grew heated after Steele pressed Smith on his delayed response.
Both agreed that many male athletes remain silent despite financial security.
Steele urged sports figures to protect female athletes.
Smith said biological men should not compete against biological women, citing risks to young female athletes.

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Story summary

Stephen A. Smith, ESPN commentator, and Sage Steele, podcast host, discussed transgender athletes in women's sports on Steele's podcast.
The conversation grew heated after Steele pressed Smith on his delayed response.
Both agreed that many male athletes remain silent despite financial security.
Steele urged sports figures to protect female athletes.
Smith said biological men should not compete against biological women, citing risks to young female athletes.