Trans Athlete's Win Prompts Policy, Federal Threats

Transgender athlete AB Hernandez became the first known transgender student to reach the California high school state track finals, winning two golds and a silver amid national debate and protests. The California Interscholastic Federation introduced a policy awarding medals to both Hernandez and top-placing cisgender athletes in each event, responding to federal threats and criticism. President Donald Trump and the Department of Justice threatened to withhold federal funding and investigate California over Hernandez's participation. Despite divided public opinion and demonstrations, the awards ceremony was peaceful, with athletes sharing the podium. The case has heightened national focus on transgender participation in girls’ sports and the ongoing debate over Title IX protections. Prominent figures, including Martina Navratilova, continue to debate its implications for women's sports.