Golfer Hailey Davidson, who is transgender, made an effort to draw comparisons between her experiences competing in women’s divisions and those of trans competitors who may have recently undergone transitions.
Noel Phillips questioned Davidson during her appearance on “Good Morning Britain” regarding studies that claim it is a “undisputed fact men are physically stronger than women” and mention Davidson’s advantage over biological females in golf. The NXXT Women’s Classic was won by Davidson last week.
Davidson, who underwent gender reassignment surgery in 2021 and reportedly started hormone therapy treatments in 2015, said she would have agreed if that had happened five years earlier, but she also acknowledged that it would have been “clearly unfair.”
“My whole philosophy behind all of this is I don’t believe trans people should be banned from sports, but I do believe there needs to be guidelines in effect,” Davidson stated. “I had a distinct advantage even four years ago, or even before my surgery. I wholeheartedly concur with that.However, three years after the surgery, years have passed, and my physical capabilities now are very different from what they were then. Again, to be completely honest, I think that men do have advantages. If a trans person receives hormone therapy for a year or has no surgery at all, they will undoubtedly benefit in most cases.
Davidson stated that while she was concerned for her safety, the comments made on social media didn’t bother her. She refuted the claim that she is ruining golf as well.
Davidson made these remarks while Stuart McKinnon, the CEO of NXXT Golf, the tour on which Davidson has achieved success, was defending the organization’s transgender inclusion policies and claiming that they were established in accordance with the USGA and LPGA.
Hailey Davison, a transgender golfer, wins the women’s event, raising her chances of earning an LPGA card.
The league will survey its players regarding transgender inclusion policies, McKinnon said, acknowledging the differing opinions on whether it is fair for Davidson to compete against biological females. Davidson was also requested to “undergo additional testosterone testing to ensure compliance with the appropriate guidelines.”
“We understand that this topic evokes strong feelings and diverse viewpoints,” McKinnon stated. “We support polite discussion and show respect for all athletes who aim to compete at the top levels of their respective sports.
“We are dedicated to maintaining the greatest standards in the sport, assisting our players in realizing their goals, and creating an environment that is inclusive, courteous, and welcoming of creative changes. We are grateful for our golf community’s enthusiasm and dedication, and we’re still committed to offering a venue that protects the standards of women’s professional golf.
