Charles Barkley Sparks Backlash After Bold Statement on Trans Athletes: “Men Should Not Play Sports Against Women”

Whew chile, Charles Barkley just lit the internet UP! The NBA legend and TNT sports commentator isn’t exactly known for holding his tongue—and this time, he’s stepping into a HEATED national debate with both feet. During a recent appearance, Barkley made waves by saying point-blank:
“Men should not play sports against women.”

That’s right. Barkley was referring to transgender athletes—specifically transgender women—competing in female sports categories, and let’s just say… the backlash was instant and fierce.

Social media is in flames, with some calling Charles “courageous” for “speaking the truth,” while others are dragging him to filth, calling the comment transphobic, outdated, and dangerous. 💥

Let’s break this all the way down.

What He Said:

In a blunt statement that instantly turned heads, Barkley said:

“I have nothing against anyone personally, but men should not be playing against women in sports. Period. It’s unfair, and it’s not right.”

NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley speaking on transgender athletes playing in women's sports. pic.twitter.com/hsn1DaJLW9

— LEXIT (@LexitMovement1) May 8, 2025

The Hall of Famer doubled down, citing strength and biology as reasons he feels women’s sports should be protected from what he described as an “unfair advantage.” He claims he’s just standing up for female athletes.

But not everyone’s buying it.

👀 Social Media Reacts:

Twitter/X, Instagram, and TikTok exploded. One user tweeted,
“Charles Barkley needs to sit this one out. You don’t get to misgender people and call it ‘fairness.’”
Another clapped back with:
“Finally, someone with a platform said what everyone is thinking. Protect women’s sports!”

Others accused Barkley of spreading hate under the guise of honesty. And then, of course, some fans are riding HARD for him, claiming he’s just telling “common sense truth.”

🏀 The Bigger Picture:

This isn’t the first time a major sports figure has weighed in on the trans athlete debate—but it might be the loudest. With legislation popping up all over the country targeting trans athletes’ rights, Barkley’s words are adding fuel to a fire that’s already blazing.

Will TNT address it? Will Barkley double down or walk it back?

One thing’s for sure: Sir Charles has entered the chat, and he’s not backing down.

What do YOU think Loungers?
Is Charles Barkley keeping it 💯 or being problematic? Sound off in the comments and let us know if this was truth… or just straight-up trash. 🗣️🔥

#CharlesBarkley #TransAthletesDebate #UrbanGossip #TalkLoungeTea #ControversyAlert