Fact check: Is Brittney Griner transgender?

1. Summary of the results

Based on the comprehensive analyses provided, Brittney Griner is not transgender. Multiple fact-checking sources have definitively rated this claim as False ^[1]. The analyses reveal that reputable media outlets and fact-checking websites have thoroughly investigated these claims and found no credible evidence to support the assertion that Griner is transgender ^[1].

The sources confirm that Griner has never publicly identified as transgender ^[2]. Instead, she is identified as a Black, queer woman who is gay and has been an advocate for the LGBTQ community ^{[3] [4] [5]}. Medical professionals have concluded that Griner is a biological female ^[6].

Recent rumors circulated online in August 2025 falsely claiming that White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed "the truth" about Griner's gender, but this has been debunked as false ^[1].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The analyses provide crucial context missing from the original question:

• Physical appearance scrutiny: Griner has faced persistent bullying and scrutiny over her appearance and voice throughout her career ^[6]. A viral video of her speaking courtside recently sparked renewed speculation, but this is far from the first time such reactions have occurred ^[6].
• Societal bias: The speculation stems from society's narrow ideas about femininity and a fundamental lack of understanding about what it means to be transgender ^[2]. This reveals how gender stereotypes are weaponized against women who don't conform to traditional feminine presentations.
• Personal impact: Griner has personally addressed these rumors and speculation in interviews, discussing her experiences with body image issues and growth spurts during her development ^[7].
• LGBTQ advocacy: While not transgender, Griner has been a significant advocate for the LGBTQ community and has helped normalize queer identity in professional sports ^[4].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question itself perpetuates harmful misinformation by treating unsubstantiated rumors as legitimate topics for investigation. The question benefits those who:

• Seek to delegitimize women's sports by questioning the gender identity of successful female athletes
• Promote transphobic narratives by spreading false claims about prominent LGBTQ advocates
• Generate engagement through controversy on social media platforms and news outlets

The persistent nature of these false claims, despite repeated debunking by fact-checkers and Griner herself, demonstrates how misinformation campaigns target marginalized communities. The timing of recent rumors coinciding with broader political discussions about transgender rights suggests coordinated efforts to weaponize Griner's identity for political gain ^{[1] [6]}.