Pro Golfer Urges LPGA Tour To Review Gender Policy For 'Fair Competition' In Women's Golf
Professional golfer Olivia Schmidt is advocating for changes to the LPGA Tour's gender participation policy, expressing concerns about fairness in women's golf competition.
Speaking in the documentary series "Tee Time: Keep Women's Golf Female," Schmidt highlights her experience competing against Hailey Davidson, a transgender golfer, during LPGA Tour Q-School. Both players reached round two and earned Epson Tour status.
LPGA and LET tournament signage
The current LPGA policy, established in 2010, allows transgender golfers to compete if they've undergone at least one year of hormone therapy and a gonadectomy. Schmidt argues this policy may disadvantage biological female athletes.
Golfer celebrates with trophy near statue
Schmidt, along with 274 fellow professionals, has signed letters to LPGA Tour leadership, the IGF, and the USGA requesting a policy review. The LPGA Tour is reportedly planning to introduce new guidelines for transgender athletes.
Smiling woman in golf attire
"We need the LPGA to make a change," Schmidt states. "They are the only ones with the power to stop it. It's up to them to protect us." She emphasizes that the movement is "pro-women" rather than "anti-trans," focusing on maintaining fair competition in women's golf.
The LPGA Tour has been contacted for comment regarding these concerns and potential policy changes.
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