At the Illinois State Cyclocross Championships, transgender cyclists Tessa Johnson, 25, and Evelyn Williamson, 30, took the top two spots in the women’s Single Speed category, sparking renewed debate on fairness in women’s sports. Johnson’s first-place finish and Williamson’s second follow their similar results from the Chicago Cyclocross Cup just two months earlier. Their victories have fueled controversy, with critics describing these outcomes as “outrageous” and an “assault” on the integrity of women’s competitions, raising ongoing questions about the inclusion of transgender athletes.
Tessa Johnson, who previously competed in men’s categories while at Clemson University, began achieving top finishes after transitioning to compete as a transgender female. Her success has heightened discussions and stirred debate around transgender athletes’ inclusion in women’s sports.
Evelyn Williamson has been competing in women’s categories since at least 2017, earning an impressive 18 titles. However, a controversial moment in 2020 saw her racing in both men’s and women’s events at the Sky Express Winter Criterium—she won in the women’s category but didn’t place as well against male competitors.
Their recent victories have drawn sharp criticism. Columnist Piers Morgan called the wins “outrageous” and questioned why more women aren’t speaking out against what he views as a violation of their rights. Tennis legend Martina Navratilova also criticized the results, describing the transgender cyclists as “mediocre male bodies taking podium places from female athletes.”
The controversy has extended into podcasting, with Megyn Kelly calling their victories “infuriating.” Former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines has pledged to personally compensate female cyclists who choose to boycott future USA Cycling events until the rules regarding transgender athletes are reevaluated. Gaines strongly urged, “Stop participating in the farce.”
Organizers of the Illinois event have not yet addressed the escalating controversy, but they are not the only ones supporting transgender athletes. The Chicago Cyclocross Cup, where Johnson and Williamson previously excelled, has affirmed its commitment to welcoming transgender riders. Their website clearly states, “Discrimination or harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, sports team affiliation, or any other divisive criteria will not be tolerated.”
The presence of transgender athletes in women’s sports remains a contentious issue, with strong opinions on both sides. As the debate continues, it’s clear that this topic will continue to draw significant scrutiny and discussion within the sports community.