Transgender golfer Hailey Davidson spoke out after being banned from competing in the NXXT Pro Women’s Tour, which changed its policy to require participants be “female at birth.”
Davidson had been 2nd in the Player of the Year race after winning an event in January.
The tour initially defended including Davidson but then polled members, announcing a new policy upholding “protected categories” for biological females to maintain competitive integrity and protect opportunities for women athletes.
Davidson lamented the mid-season ban via Instagram.
“Effective immediately, I have been removed (banned) from the next 3 NXXT tournaments that I already signed up for and been approved to play,” Davidson wrote. “They changed their policy mid season, after me signing up already and being 2nd in Player of the Year race.”
“The NXXT Women’s Pro Tour’s policies, especially concerning gender, have been formulated in alignment with those of the LPGA and USGA. This approach is crucial in maintaining the integrity of our partnership with the LPGA and ensuring a fair and consistent competitive environment,” the statement said. “When Hailey Davidson joined the tour, she complied with these policies by providing necessary documentation, including validation from the LPGA and USGA, which also facilitated her participation in the 2022 Q-School.”
“As we navigate through the evolving landscape of sports, it is crucial to uphold the competitive integrity that is the cornerstone of women’s sports,” NXXT GOLF CEO Stuart McKinnon said.
“Our revised policy is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to celebrating and protecting the achievements and opportunities of female athletes. Protected categories are a fundamental aspect of sports at all levels, and it is essential for our Tour to uphold these categories for biological females, ensuring a level playing field.”
While the NXXT cited upholding women’s sports, it remains unknown if Davidson will appeal or protest the exclusionary decision.
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