Transgender Runner Valentina Petrillo Faces Criticism After Paralympic Debut
Petrillo, the first transgender athlete to compete in Paralympic track events, sparks debate over fairness and inclusion.
- Valentina Petrillo did not qualify for the 400m T12 final despite achieving a personal best time.
- J.K. Rowling and other critics have labeled Petrillo a 'cheat' for competing in women's events.
- Petrillo, diagnosed with Stargardt disease at 14, transitioned in 2019 and has since competed as a woman.
- The International Paralympic Committee allows transgender athletes to compete if they meet specific criteria.
- Petrillo will compete in the 200m T12 event later this week.