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On late October, ACFC athlete Elizabeth Eddy posted her first social media statement in nearly two years. Within her message, she addressed reports that the NWSL had quietly abandoned its policy of inclusion for transgender and intersex athletes, leaving the organization's future stance unclear.

The following day, her writing was shared in full by another publication, providing broader exposure.

“I'm concerned that without clarity about who the league is for, it will sacrifice its character and its growth,” Eddy wrote.

The article generally argued for a ban on transgender players from the NWSL to protect “the integrity of female athletics.”

Questioning the Real Risk

It remains uncertain how Eddy thinks the league's integrity has been damaged—either under its former policy that allowed trans athletes or its present absence of policy. The organization, now in its thirteenth year, has developed a distinct brand. It's highly competitive, influential in business and culture, and an essential part of the global women's soccer scene.

Its growth trajectory seems largely fine—audience numbers have grown each year, and growth to 16 teams is planned for 2026.

Examining the Data

Eddy cites the English FA's recent ban on trans players as a success story. However, that restriction is believed to impact only approximately twenty amateur participants out of millions registered athletes. The effect in the United States would likely be similarly minimal.

Two years ago, when the NWSL's policy of inclusion was implemented, there were two transgender athletes: Quinn and Kumi Yokoyama. They have both departed, and no out trans players presently compete in the NWSL. On the current season's first matchdays, the NWSL welcomed its thousandth participant. That's just two openly transgender individuals out of more than a thousand in league history.

Baseless Fears and Actual Harm

The article is framed as if there is a pipeline of trans players ready to take over the league at a moment's notice. There is no such thing. At present, there are no out trans players playing at a professional level in the United States. Federal legislation explicitly bans transgender athletes from participating in NCAA college soccer. Additionally, multiple scientifically reviewed studies have shown that trans athletes have no inherent physical edge over cisgender competitors.

In the absence of out trans people, transphobic attacks have persisted along racial lines. When Orlando Pride's Barbra Banda was named player of the year, she experienced a surge of online abuse. The NWSL was slow to respond in defending their key athlete. Likewise, Kansas City Current's Temwa Chawinga and her sister have experienced similar mistreatment.

“That article does not speak for this team in our dressing room,” Angel City FC captain Sarah Gorden told the media. “We don't agree with the content for a plethora of causes, but primarily the implications come across as discriminatory against trans people and racist as well.”

Other Urgent Issues Confronting the NWSL

Even if one were to overlook all that and believe that including transgender athletes represents a real problem for the NWSL, it's difficult to see how it would surpass any number of other issues that have truly hindered the growth and affected its reputation.

• Working conditions for professionals continue to be a problem. Several ex- club employees are suing the club and the league, alleging racial and disability discrimination, sexual harassment, and failure to prevent prejudice.
• Athlete welfare is another area of concern. In spring, Angel City defender Savy King fell on the field, requiring emergency medical treatment. The match resumed, even though teammates were visibly distraught. The players' association called on the NWSL to review their health procedures.
• Severe climate guidelines have also been questioned. During a nationally televised match, the NWSL commissioner allegedly warned to penalize a club over a disagreement in hot weather policies.
• Economic rivalry from European leagues like the Women's Super League is increasing, attracting some of the NWSL's best players away from the NWSL and nation where they made their careers.

Trans athletes were not involved into a single one of these issues. And it's unlikely they will, irrespective of whether Eddy's suggestions are implemented.