Trans golfer faces tests over Tour eligibility

A TRANSGENDER golfer is facing testosterone testing to verify her eligibility and will also be the subject of a player poll after winning a women’s event in Florida. Hailey Davidson, who was born in Ayrshire but now lives in the United States, has been the target of criticism and received death threats online after her victory in the NXXT Women’s Classic. Davidson believes being born male no longer gives her any physiological advantages, but the response to her win prompted NXXT Golf chief executive Stuart McKinnon to seek the opinion of the circuit’s players and request that Davidson undergoes further testing. ‘The recent discussions surrounding Hailey Davidson’s participation and success on our tour have highlighted a range of viewpoints,’ McKinnon said in a statement on the Tour’s website. ‘The NXXT Women’s Pro Tour acknowledges these perspectives while emphasising that our policies and decisions are guided by the frameworks set by the LPGA and USGA. ‘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.’ Davidson told Golfweek she had closed her X — formerly known as Twitter — account after receiving several death threats, but that she did not object to the poll.