World Athletics Introduces Sex Testing After 50-60 Male DSD Athletes Compete in Women's Finals Since 2000

New World Athletics rules require athletes competing in the women's category to undergo a genetic test detecting the SRY gene, which indicates male development; those testing positive will be ineligible. This policy follows revelations that between 50 and 60 athletes who underwent male puberty have been finalists in elite women's track and field events since 2000, substantially skewing competition outcomes. Data shows these athletes, often with differences in sex development (DSD), are vastly overrepresented among finalists, raising concerns about fairness and the integrity of female competitions. The reintroduction of sex testing aims to protect opportunities for biologically female athletes but has sparked criticism from experts who argue it enforces restrictive and patriarchal norms on women in sports. The debate continues amid calls for inclusive policies balanced against the need to maintain equitable competition standards in women's athletics. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe emphasizes that "gender cannot trump biology" in elite female sports.