Joe Rogan addressed the WNBA’s ongoing debate over eligibility in women’s sports during The Joe Rogan Experience #2539, arguing that the league has placed itself in an awkward position by refusing to establish a clear definition of “woman.”
The discussion began with the podcast guests referring to a male athlete who had expressed interest in qualifying for the WNBA. Rogan suggested that the athlete’s approach was a calculated way to expose what he viewed as inconsistencies in the league’s policies.
“They’ve painted themselves into the most looney position where they can’t define what a woman is,” Rogan said.
He argued that the controversy has gained attention because the WNBA has struggled to balance gender identity, competitive fairness, and biological differences. According to Rogan, recognizing a person’s chosen identity does not eliminate the physical distinctions that can influence athletic performance.
“Trans women aren’t women. They’re men who identify as women, which is fine, but there’s a biological distinction that protects women in sports, and that’s chromosomes,” he said.
Rogan then proposed a straightforward eligibility standard for the league. “If you want to play in the WNBA, you have to have XX,” he stated, referring to the chromosomal pattern typically associated with females.
The podcast conversation also touched on the difference in public reaction when transgender men seek opportunities in men’s sports. Rogan observed that there appears to be less public concern when a female athlete attempts to compete against men, while the reverse situation generates far greater debate because of potential physical advantages.
Rogan contrasted that with the reaction to transgender men competing in men’s sports, adding, “No one gives a f**k if a trans man wants to try and play in the NBA.”
Ari Shaffir then joked, “Wait till someone in the WNBA comes out as a man.”
