USA Gymnastics has recently removed its transgender eligibility policy pages from its website, indicating a shift in its approach to trans athletes competing in women’s categories. A spokesperson said the organization is reassessing its policies in light of the current legal landscape. This decision comes amidst increasing pressure from political figures such as former President Donald Trump, who signed an executive order banning trans athletes from women’s sports. Other sports governing bodies, like USA Fencing and USA Track and Field, have also started revising their policies in response to public opinion and legal developments.
The American public’s opposition to trans inclusion in women’s sports has been growing, as demonstrated by a recent New York Times/Ipsos survey. The survey found that 79% of respondents, including a majority of Democrats, believe that biological males who identify as women should not be allowed to compete in women’s sports. This changing perception has prompted various sports organizations to reconsider their policies, with USA Gymnastics now joining the wave of changes. These developments are expected to have a significant impact on the sports landscape, potentially leading to different rules for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics compared to previous years.