JK Rowling has once again sparked controversy by openly criticising transgender athletes, this time directing her anger at Valentina Petrillo, a transgender Paralympic sprinter. The Harry Potter author called Petrillo a “cheater” and questioned the fairness of allowing transgender women to compete in women’s sports.

In a public statement, Rowling expressed outrage, saying: “Where is the fairness if they are all transgender? How can they compete in women’s events?” She compared Petrillo’s case to that of Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who was recently banned for life after being declared male by the WBO. “Petrillo, like Khelif, is taking part in events where they don’t belong. It’s no longer about identity, it’s about justice. Women are being marginalised by these decisions.”

Rowling’s comments have sparked widespread debate, with some supporting her stance on maintaining equality in women’s sports, while others accuse her of perpetuating harmful rhetoric against transgender people. Her comparison between Petrillo and Khelif – two athletes with very different circumstances – has only further fueled the controversy.

Supporters argue that Rowling is addressing a growing concern about competitive integrity in sports, while critics believe her statements reinforce exclusionary views that harm the transgender community. Regardless of where people stand, JK Rowling remains a powerful and singular voice in this ongoing debate.

With these recent comments, Rowling has once again found herself at the centre of a heated debate over the future of women’s sport and transgender inclusion.