Professional surfer Bethany Hamilton became an inspiration to many across the globe with her story after she lost her left arm in a shark attack back in 2003 but still returned to her career as a professional surfer. She wrote about her experience in an autobiography a year later and was the subject of a movie called Soul Surfer in 2011. And now she’s in the headlines for a much more controversial reason.
After the World Surf League announced a policy that will allow transgender women to compete in women’s surfing competitions, Bethany Hamilton took to social media to speak out against the decision and revealing that she will not compete in the league if the rule remains.
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“Who is pushing for this huge change? … Does this better the sport of surfing? Is this better for the women in surfing? If so, how?” Hamilton asked in a video posted to her Instagram account.
“I personally think that the best solution would be to create a different division so that all can have a fair opportunity to showcase their passion and talent — and I think it’s really hard to imagine what the future of women’s surfing will be like in 15-20 years down the road if we move forward allowing this major change,” Hamilton added.
It’s a huge statement, and the sports world had plenty to say about it.
@bethanyhamilton Speaks Out Against New World Surf League Transgender Policy!
"Does this better the sport of surfing? Is this better for the women in surfing? If so, how?" pic.twitter.com/W850jZlnWg
— BRAVE BOOKS (@BraveBooksUS) February 5, 2023
Surfing champion Bethany Hamilton has just announced she will NOT compete in the World Surf League anymore if they allow biological men to surf in the women’s events. She’s already an absolute legend but this stand makes her even more of a legend. Thank you @bethanyhamilton! pic.twitter.com/gF2qa7cD84
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) February 5, 2023
bethany hamilton just posted a video on instagram basically saying she's against the WSL rule change re: trans athletes, and im so beyond disappointed in her response. i've loved her from such a young age & it's so devastating to see someone you look up to do that.
— ⸆⸉ (@taysmoonstone) February 5, 2023
https://twitter.com/milfcarthy/status/1622128669899771904
Hey @bethanyhamilton, how about u just accept the fact that Trans women are WOMEN & allow them to compete side by side w/ u instead of huffing, puffing & coming up w/ a mile high pile of excuses & complaints? If u claim to be a good Christian, open your ❤️ to others please https://t.co/6TsXVtHqNT
— Jeff Rothman 🌻🏒⚾️ (@amazingjr87) February 5, 2023
https://twitter.com/fearlys97/status/1622113763842220032?s=20&t=AUovkdMN_w11avHmWTHsHQ
Today I lost an idol when Bethany Hamilton outed herself as transphobic 😭😭
— princess mavs (@mavagomez_) February 5, 2023
Hamilton is not the only athlete to speak out against trans women competing in women’s athletics. Champion shot put athlete Amelia Strickler recently spoke out against a similar policy.
