Texas Takes Legal Action Against NCAA Over Misleading ‘Women’s Sports’ Label

Texas has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, accusing the organization of deceiving consumers by advertising “women’s sports” that allow men to compete. The suit, filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, claims the NCAA’s policies mislead fans who expect to watch women-only events.

The lawsuit alleges that the NCAA’s rules, which permit men identifying as transgender women to compete in women’s sports, have led to “false, deceptive, and misleading practices.” The state demands the NCAA either prevent men from competing in Texas collegiate athletics or stop labeling these events as “women’s sports.”

According to the legal filing, “woman” is defined as “an adult human female,” and this understanding has remained consistent throughout history. The lawsuit argues that permitting men to compete in women’s events undermines fairness and safety, citing the physical advantages men hold over women in sports. This, the lawsuit states, deprives women of titles, records, and opportunities.

The NCAA’s practices are accused of confusing consumers, particularly those who attend women’s sports events. The lawsuit contends that fans purchase tickets to support women’s athletics, only to find that men are taking the spotlight, which causes widespread outrage.

The NCAA, which profits significantly from women’s sports, including events like the women’s basketball tournament and NCAA volleyball, is facing claims of dishonesty about who competes in these events. In addition, the lawsuit draws parallels to past instances where men, masquerading as women, were able to dominate women’s competitions, causing public backlash.