CNN 5 Things One Thing: The Supreme Court Enters the Debate Over Transgender Athletes
Jan 11, 2026
John Fritze, a CNN Supreme Court reporter, breaks down the pivotal case concerning transgender athletes in the Supreme Court. Mayumi Berry, a former NCAA track athlete, shares her personal journey, including the emotional weight of transitioning and competing on men's teams. They discuss the political landscape under Trump, state bans on trans athletes, and the ongoing scientific debate about athletic advantages. Fritze also highlights the legal implications tied to Title IX and the 14th Amendment, examining how a conservative court may influence the outcome.
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Trans Athlete's Personal Struggle
- Mayumi Berry described running men's track while presenting femininely and being forced to use her deadname at meets.
- She faced death threats, coach meetings, and emotional strain that ultimately pushed her away from collegiate running.
Science On Advantage Is Inconclusive
- Scientific evidence about athletic advantage for transgender women remains limited and inconclusive due to a lack of large-scale studies.
- Advocates argue policy should reflect the weak empirical base rather than assume an inherent competitive edge.
State Bans And A High-Profile Example
- The episode notes that since 2020, over half of U.S. states have enacted bans on trans athlete participation.
- It highlights Leah Thomas as a rare high-profile example of a trans athlete winning an NCAA title.