The NXXT Women’s Pro Tour has launched a survey of its members after Scotland’s Hailey Davidson became the first transgender golfer to win a professional tournament.
The tour say it is “vital to consider the perspectives of those directly affected by these policies”, with the survey asking opinions on gender policy.
Davidson will also undergo additional testosterone testing to ensure compliance with current guidelines.
The Women’s Pro Tour say its guidelines have been formulated in alignment with those of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and United States Golf Association (USGA).
The guidelines state players should have declared their gender as female, have undergone gender reassignment surgery and must have undergone hormonal therapy and maintained testosterone levels appropriate for the assigned sex.
The tour says that when Davidson joined she complied with its policies but that her participation and success in Florida has “highlighted a range of viewpoints” and that “our decisions are guided by what is best for our players, setting aside personal beliefs”.
A statement continued: “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.
“We appreciate the passion and commitment of our golfing community and remain dedicated to providing a platform that upholds the integrity of women’s professional golf.
“We want to assure the public and all stakeholders that we are dedicated to transparency and thoroughness in addressing this matter.”
Speaking to Sky News, Ayrshire-born Davidson said:, external “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.
“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.”
