Two prominent retired American athletes have spoken out against the International Olympic Committee's recently announced policy regarding transgender participation in women's sports.

Former U.S. women's national soccer team star Megan Rapinoe criticized the IOC's new guidelines, which are designed to address eligibility for women's Olympic events. Rapinoe challenged the policy's scientific foundation and expressed opposition to the rule changes.

Basketball Hall of Famer Sue Bird also voiced criticism of the policy during a podcast appearance. Bird characterized the IOC's approach as being motivated by "fearmongering" rather than genuine efforts to protect women's sports.

The IOC's new policy establishes guidelines for transgender athlete participation in Olympic competition, with specific provisions for women's events. The organization has stated the policy aims to balance inclusion with competitive fairness.

Both athletes have been vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights throughout their careers. Rapinoe, who retired from professional soccer in 2023, was a key figure in the U.S. women's national team's World Cup and Olympic successes. Bird, who retired from the WNBA in 2022, is considered one of the greatest basketball players in history.

The debate over transgender participation in women's sports has become a significant issue in athletics at various levels, with different sports organizations adopting varying approaches to eligibility rules.