LPGA Tour Updates Gender Eligibility Policy to Exclude Players Assigned Male at Birth – One America News Network
OAN Staff James Meyers
10:55 AM – Wednesday, December 4, 2024
On Wednesday, the LPGA Tour announced changes to its gender-eligibility policy, set to take effect at the beginning of the 2025 season.
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The professional golf association stated in a press release that male athletes who have experienced male puberty will be prohibited from competing in the LPGA Tour, Epson Tour, Ladies European Tour, and all other elite LPGA events.
“Individuals assigned male at birth who have undergone male puberty are ineligible to compete in the specified events,” the organization explained. “The guidelines for the LPGA’s recreational programs and non-elite competitions have different criteria to provide more participation opportunities within the larger LPGA community.”
This decision follows calls for a policy revision from two professional golfers and a retired player.
“Golf provides chances for all athletes to compete at professional and elite amateur levels,” the LPGA Tour asserted. “Competitions are typically categorized into ‘women’s events,’ which have specific eligibility criteria, or ‘open events,’ where any player can compete regardless of gender.”
Outgoing LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan noted that the new policy is grounded in scientific research.
“Our policy reflects a comprehensive, science-informed, and inclusive approach,” Marcoux Samaan stated. “This policy underscores our ongoing dedication to ensuring that everyone feels welcome within our organization while maintaining fairness and competitive balance in our elite competitions.”
“This advisory group has indicated that the impacts of male puberty provide competitive advantages in golf performance compared to players who have not experienced male puberty.”
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