Fencer disqualified for refusing to face trans opponent

U.S.A. Fencing disqualified a competitor from a women’s event in Maryland due to her refusal to compete against an opponent she claims is trans.

Stephanie Turner participated in a U.S.A. Fencing regional tournament on Sunday at the University of Maryland, which was not under NCAA sanction.

In an online video, Turner is seen kneeling in protest prior to her match. Consequently, according to ‘ESPN’, an official issued her a black card, resulting in her disqualification from the rest of the tournament. The Associated Press is not naming Turner's opponent, as they have not publicly commented on the situation or revealed their gender identity.

“Refusing to compete against another properly registered fencer for any reason is not permitted,” stated USA Fencing in a release to The Associated Press. “Such a refusal leads to disqualification and associated penalties under these rules. This policy is in place to ensure fair competition and uphold the sport's integrity.”

U.S.A. Fencing mentioned that it implemented its current policy regarding transgender and non-binary athletes in 2023. The organisation further clarified that Turner’s disqualification was specific to the tournament on Sunday.

“We recognize that discussions about equity and inclusion concerning transgender involvement in sports are ongoing,” the statement noted. “USA Fencing remains committed to inclusion and is prepared to revise the policy as more evidence-based research becomes available or as policy shifts occur within the broader Olympic & Paralympic framework.”

Turner told Fox News Digital that she noticed she would face a trans competitor after reviewing the competition pool the previous night.

“I informed them that I refused to compete because this person is male, and I am female, and this tournament is for women. I refused to compete on principle,” Turner expressed to Fox News.