Martina Navratilova criticizes USA Fencing over female fencer's disqualification

Martina Navratilova expressed her outrage on social media after female fencer Stephanie Turner was disqualified for refusing to compete against transgender athlete Redmond Sullivan at the Cherry Blossom Open in Maryland. Turner protested by taking a knee before the match, citing her belief that competing against a biological male in a women's tournament was unfair. The incident, which garnered significant attention online, resulted in Turner receiving a black card for unsportsmanlike conduct and being expelled from the tournament. Navratilova condemned USA Fencing's decision, arguing that it undermines female athletes and their rights to fair competition. In response, USA Fencing defended its policy allowing transgender athletes to compete as per their gender identity, emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity. The incident has sparked a larger debate about the participation of transgender athletes in women's sports, with strong reactions from both supporters and critics.