The protocols, developed after extensive consultation with medical and scientific experts, mean players must be female by birth or transition before the onset of male puberty to be eligible to compete in women’s competitions.
“We have carefully reviewed the best available medical and scientific advice regarding the participation of transgender athletes in elite and grassroots golf competitions and have decided it is right to update our terms of participation to maintain fairness in our professional women’s championships and elite amateur championships,” Martin Slumbers, outgoing R&A CEO, said in a statement.
“While we believe that golf should be open to all and are committed to growing the sport, we recognize that we have a responsibility to ensure that players can compete fairly and equally in our elite competitions.”
The new policy will take effect in early 2025 but will not apply at the recreational level, where the World Handicap System allows golfers to play and compete regardless of age, ability, background or gender.
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