Fencer Stephanie Turner Disqualified for Refusing to Compete Against Trans Opponent

During the Cherry Blossom Open at the University of Maryland, fencer Stephanie Turner was disqualified after refusing to compete against transgender athlete Redmond Sullivan, taking a knee in protest instead. Turner stated she could not compete against what she perceives as a male participant in a women's tournament, leading to her ejection for violating USA Fencing's rules against refusing to compete against an eligible opponent. The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many criticizing USA Fencing for allowing transgender athletes to compete in women's events and supporting Sullivan's participation. Tennis legend Martina Navratilova expressed her disapproval of the governing body's decision. In response, USA Fencing reaffirmed its transgender policy aimed at inclusion, emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue on the evolving issue of equity in sports. They highlighted that the policy is based on research and committed to revising it as new evidence emerges.