British author J.K. Rowling has ignited fresh controversy after labelling two trans competitors—Italian Paralympic runner Valentina Petrillo and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif—”cheaters” of women’s sport. Her comments, shared on millions of fans on X (formerly Twitter), have reopened a hot global argument over the participation of trans competitors, prompting criticism and support.

Rowling was reacting to recent accounts of Petrillo, a blind athlete who transitioned and races in women’s Paralympic events, and Khelif, who was disqualified from competing in the women’s boxing final at the 2023 World Championships because of “medical grounds,” apparently due to high levels of testosterone. In her tweet, Rowling wrote, “Women’s sport is not a free-for-all for males who identify differently. This is not inclusion. It is cheating.”

The backlash followed soon. LGBTQ+ activists and athletes worldwide condemned Rowling’s comments as deceptive and discriminatory. Most pointed out that Petrillo and Khelif were merely doing their job in line with the regulations of their respective sporting organizations. Critics warned Rowling’s words would fuel perilous language against the transgender population.

Petrillo responded calmly during a TV interview with Italian broadcasters, saying, “I run because I love sport, and I respect the rules. I don’t want to deprive anybody of anything. I want to run honestly, and I do.” Khelif has not responded to Rowling’s comments directly but had previously referred to her disqualification in 2023 as “a bitter moment in my career.”.

Despite the backlash, however, Rowling’s comments found support from some feminist groups and supporters of sex-based sports divisions. They praised her for defending the rights of biological women and resisting what they view as discriminatory policies. “This isn’t about identity—it’s about fairness, safety, and biology,” they stated.

Rowling has emerged as a focal point in discussions regarding sex and gender, as of 2020, frequently speaking out about concerns regarding the effect of policies on gender identity upon women and girls. Her pronouncements have branded her an extremely polarizing character—lauded by some, vilified by others, including readers of her “Harry Potter” books.

As international sporting institutions grapple with how to be equitable while being all-encompassing, Rowling’s most recent remarks have only added fuel to the fire. With major tournaments on the horizon and mounting pressure for more open regulations, far from ending, the debate is still on—and Rowling is a lightning rod at its center.