Several prominent LGBTQ+ athletes have made the difficult decision to opt out of participating in WorldPride 2025 events in Washington D.C., citing concerns over safety and political backlash. The athletes, including Olympic medalists and professional league players, are choosing to withdraw from public appearances at the event, as well as from sporting competitions that were set to take place as part of WorldPride’s expansive schedule of activities.
The decision to opt out comes as a result of rising political tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S., particularly in light of ongoing legal battles over transgender rights, sports participation, and access to healthcare. In particular, the controversial policies enacted under the Trump administration, such as limiting healthcare access for transgender individuals and imposing bans on transgender women from competing in women’s sports, have created an environment of fear and uncertainty within the LGBTQ+ sports community.
One notable withdrawal is from professional tennis player Madison Keys, who recently announced that she would not attend the WorldPride LGBTQIA+ Aquatics Championship in Washington D.C., scheduled to be held in late June. In a public statement, Keys expressed concerns about the safety of LGBTQ+ athletes, particularly transgender individuals, in light of the current political climate.
“While I believe in the importance of Pride events, my decision to withdraw is based on the growing political pressure and safety concerns surrounding the LGBTQ+ community right now,” Keys wrote. “It’s not just about the celebration; it’s about our collective safety, and unfortunately, the situation in the U.S. right now makes it difficult for me to participate fully in good faith.”
Other athletes, including several members of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT), have expressed similar concerns, citing fears about protests, counter-demonstrations, and safety issues at the event. Many athletes have argued that Pride events should focus on the celebration of community and identity rather than becoming political battlegrounds.
The withdrawal of athletes has created a ripple effect within the LGBTQ+ community, particularly among advocates for transgender rights. Some fear that these decisions may further politicize Pride events, which have historically been safe spaces for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite these challenges, organizers of WorldPride 2025 are determined to press forward, reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity and visibility. Ryan Bos, executive director of the Capital Pride Alliance, which is organizing the event, expressed disappointment at the withdrawals but vowed to ensure that the event would go on as planned. “While we respect each individual’s decision, we will continue to push forward with WorldPride 2025, a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience and strength,” Bos said.
While some athletes have withdrawn, others are reaffirming their commitment to attending WorldPride 2025, despite the political climate. Many hope that the event will remain a safe, inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community, as well as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. The event’s success will ultimately depend on how well organizers can balance the pressures of political resistance with the goal of celebrating and advancing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the face of adversity.