Gymnastics icon Nadia Comaneci has thrown her support behind the International Olympic Committee’s newly announced stance on transgender participation in women’s athletic competition, describing the policy shift as essential for preserving competitive integrity.
The five-time Olympic gold medalist didn’t mince words when discussing the IOC’s direction under new leadership. With President Kirsty Coventry steering the organization toward stricter guidelines on trans athletes in female categories, Comaneci believes the governing body is moving in the right direction.
“Of course, we have to safeguard women’s sports and use the rules so that everyone competes fairly,” Comaneci told Americano in a recent interview. “It was a great decision by the new president of the International Olympic Committee. I understand the importance of inclusion, but women’s sports are for women.”
Her comments arrive amid an ongoing worldwide conversation about gender identity in athletics, one that has divided opinion across sporting communities.
Comaneci specifically addressed the contentious situation involving Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, whose participation at the 2024 Paris Olympics became a flashpoint for debate. The case highlighted the complexities facing sports administrators as they attempt to balance inclusivity with what many view as fundamental questions about competitive fairness.
The gymnastics pioneer, who became the first athlete to record a perfect 10 at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, accumulated nine Olympic medals throughout her career at the Montreal and Moscow Games. Her revolutionary performances transformed gymnastics and established standards of excellence that continue to inspire athletes today.
Beyond the transgender athlete discussion, Comaneci also reflected on how the sporting world has evolved in its treatment of psychological wellbeing. The conversation around mental health in athletics has transformed dramatically since her competitive days.
“In those circumstances, it (mental health) was taboo. It wasn’t talked about because it was considered a weakness, and now I think it’s good that everyone understands that even if you don’t play sports, it’s part of life, and it will happen to you at some point,” the veteran Olympic champion added.
Comaneci has remained deeply connected to gymnastics since retiring from competition. She frequently celebrates contemporary athletes, particularly Simone Biles, who has collected 11 Olympic medals and ranks among the sport’s most decorated competitors. Her ongoing engagement with the gymnastics community reflects an enduring passion for the discipline that made her a household name.
