The NCAA has revised its participation policy for transgender athletes, restricting competition in women’s sports to those assigned female at birth. This change follows President Trump’s recent executive order aimed at preventing transgender athletes from competing in girls’ and women’s events, asserting that “sex” refers to one’s birth assignment. The new policy, which is effective immediately, overrides the previously established sport-by-sport eligibility approach and applies to all athletes, regardless of past eligibility.
NCAA President Charlie Baker stated that uniform standards are needed to address inconsistencies across state laws. The decision has received support from figures such as former Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines, who previously challenged the NCAA over the inclusion of transgender athletes.
Despite the minority status of transgender athletes—approximately only ten within the NCAA—the ongoing debates on fairness and safety have intensified. The policy also asserts that athletes assigned male at birth can train with women’s teams, while those designated female who undergo hormone therapy can practice but not compete without jeopardising team eligibility.
The NCAA emphasises that it remains committed to fostering inclusive athletic environments while standardising eligibility rules to enhance fairness in competition. As part of its mission, the NCAA plans to provide resources aimed at maintaining the mental and physical health of student-athletes.