LPGA and USGA reveal new rules on gender and trans players

The LPGA and USGA have announced new gender policies stating that players must have been assigned female at birth or have transitioned to female before going through puberty in order to be eligible for their competitions.

The LPGA said the new rules were the result of more than a year of study involving medicine, science, sport physiology and gender policy law.

In a statement, the LPGA said: "This working group has advised that the effects of male puberty confer competitive advantages in golf performance compared to players who have not undergone male puberty."

LPGA commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan said: "Our policy is reflective of an extensive, science-based and inclusive approach. The policy represents our continued commitment to ensure that all feel welcome within our organisation, while preserving the fairness and competitive equity and elite competitions."

USGA chief executive Mike Whan said: "Our updated policy reflects a thoughtful and thorough process during which the USGA consulted with leading medical professionals from around the world."

Hailey Davidson, who missed qualifying for this year's US Women’s Open by one shot, will not be eligible to compete in events sanctioned by the LPGA and USGA under the new rules.

The 32-year-old began hormone treatments in her early 20s and in 2021 underwent gender-affirming surgery.

Responding to the LPGA’s announcement on Instagram, Davidson wrote: "Can’t say I didn’t see this coming. Banned from the Epson and the LPGA. All the silence and people wanting to stay 'neutral’ thanks for absolutely nothing. This happened because of your silence."