Trump Reiterates Stance on Transgender Athletes in Sports, Citing Weightlifting Anecdote

Former President Donald Trump, in a speech on July 24, 2025, reportedly brought back the phrase "bing bong" while discussing the participation of transgender individuals in sports, specifically referencing an anecdote about a transitioned man breaking a weightlifting record. The statement aligns with his consistent rhetoric and policy actions aimed at restricting transgender women from competing in women's sports.

"A man who transitioned came up and looked at the bar: 'How much is it?' 212 pounds. 'Oh, let me try it.' BING, BONG. I think he broke the record by 109 pounds," Trump stated, according to a tweet from "Resist the Mainstream." This anecdote was presented to highlight his views on competitive fairness.

This latest comment follows a significant executive order signed by Trump on February 5, 2025, titled "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports." This order mandates the rescission of federal funds from educational programs that permit men to compete in women’s sports and directs Title IX enforcement against institutions not complying. The order was signed on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, emphasizing his administration's focus on the issue.

The executive order also had immediate repercussions for collegiate athletics. On February 6, 2025, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) revised its policy to align with the order, limiting competition in women's sports to athletes assigned female at birth. This change was announced by NCAA President Charlie Baker, who stated that the order provided a "clear, national standard" for athlete eligibility.

Trump's stance on transgender athletes has been a central theme in his public appearances and campaign promises, often framing it as a measure to protect women's sports. His administration has also indicated intentions to prevent transgender athletes from obtaining visas for international competitions held in the U.S., including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. This ongoing focus underscores a broader political and cultural debate surrounding gender identity and competitive fairness in sports.