The athletics world is reeling after Noah Lyles, the 2024 Olympic 100m champion, ignited controversy with a provocative statement about transgender Paralympian Valentina Petrillo. During a press conference at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Lyles declared, “I will withdraw from the 2028 Olympics if Valentina Petrillo competes in the men’s category. Are they trying to humiliate us men? If she competes for the men’s team, I’ll make her pregnant.” The remarks, widely condemned as offensive, drew immediate backlash.

Just five minutes later, Petrillo, the first openly transgender athlete to compete at the 2024 Paralympics, delivered a scathing response on X: “Noah Lyles, you’re only 28. Who do you think you’re talking to? Are you even a man to say such disgusting things? Shame on you. Maybe you should compete in the women’s category—you’d look great in a dress.” Her sharp retort went viral, amassing millions of views and prompting a wave of support from fans and activists.

Lyles, facing intense criticism, issued a public apology within hours. “I let my emotions get the better of me. My comments were inappropriate and disrespectful. I apologize to Valentina and the transgender community,” he stated. However, the damage was done, with many calling for sanctions from World Athletics. Posts on X reflected the outrage, with one user writing, “Lyles’ comments were vile. Petrillo’s response was iconic.”

Petrillo, who competes in the women’s T12 category due to her visual impairment, has been a polarizing figure, with some questioning her participation in women’s events. Yet, her compliance with World Para Athletics’ regulations has been repeatedly affirmed. This incident has reignited debates about gender, fairness, and respect in sports, casting a shadow over Lyles’ legacy as he prepares for the 2028 Olympics. Meanwhile, Petrillo’s dignified response has cemented her status as a trailblazer.