“The W in WNBA stands for women” – Martina Navratilova speaks out for Sophie Cunningham amid calls for Indiana Fever removal

Martina Navratilova has defended Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham following calls for the team to part ways with her. The controversy originated after Cunningham voiced opposition to the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports during an ESPN interview, prompting New York Times journalist Candace Buckner to argue that the franchise should move on from the guard.

Responding to Buckner's column, Navratilova stated on social media that Cunningham was not at fault and argued that the WNBA's policies escalated the situation. The 18-time Grand Slam champion has consistently supported Cunningham, previously rejecting media characterizations of the basketball player as anti-trans and maintaining that she is pro-women.