Transgender golfer Hailey Davidson will be required to undergo testosterone testing to verify her eligibility and be the subject of a player poll after criticism of her winning a women’s pro tour event.
Davidson told Sky News she received death threats after picking up the trophy at the NXXT Women’s Classic in Orlando, Florida, and was accepting of regulations to ensure sport is not a “free for all”.
The Ayrshire-born player insists being born male does not give her physiological advantages anymore.
She said in an interview from Florida: “I recognise that I did have an unfair advantage a few years ago. I’ve been transitioning for nine years. I’ve been on hormones for almost nine years, I had surgery… coming up almost on three years. I’ve lost just over 50 miles an hour swing speed.”
But NXXT Golf indicated her triumph raised issues with the tour’s integrity, with CEO Stuart McKinnon saying: “Recognising the spectrum of views on this issue, we wish to highlight that our decisions are guided by what is best for our players, setting aside personal beliefs.
“Part of our commitment is ensuring an environment that is inclusive and safe for all members. In light of recent events, we have initiated a poll among our tour players to gather their opinions on our gender policy. We believe it is vital to consider the perspectives of those directly affected by these policies.
“Furthermore, in maintaining the integrity of our standards, we have requested Hailey Davidson to undergo additional testosterone testing to ensure compliance with the appropriate guidelines.
“We understand that this topic evokes strong feelings and diverse viewpoints. We encourage constructive dialogue and respect for all athletes who strive to compete at the highest levels of their sport.”
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Davidson is willing to play within the rules – with a dream of earning a place on the LPGA Tour and competing at the Scottish Open
“Trans athletes shouldn’t be banned, but at the same time, there needs to be regulations in place because it shouldn’t just be a free for all,” she said.
“I think with so many topics, we as a society just need to sit down and listen to each other rather than scream at each other and put hatred on it.
“I think we forget that people are actually humans at the same time.”