Hailey Davidson, a transgender golfer who has faced recent exclusions from major women’s golf organizations, has announced her decision to join LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed professional golf tour. This move comes in the wake of policy changes by the LPGA and USGA, which now require players to be assigned female at birth or to have transitioned before male puberty, effectively barring Davidson from their competitions starting in 2025.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Davidson, who began her transition in 2015 and underwent gender-affirming surgery in 2021, has been a prominent figure in professional golf. She earned status for the 2025 Epson Tour after tying for 95th in the second stage of the LPGA Q-Series in October 2024. However, the recent policy updates have nullified her eligibility for both the LPGA and Epson Tours.
GOLF MONTHLY
In response to these developments, Davidson expressed her disappointment, stating that she had “the greatest achievement I’ve earned in my life taken from me.”
GOLF MONTHLY
Despite the setbacks, she remains determined to continue her professional golf career.
LIV Golf, known for its innovative approach and substantial financial backing, has not publicly commented on Davidson’s inclusion. The organization has been recruiting top talent from various tours, offering lucrative contracts and a new format that has garnered both attention and criticism within the golf community.
Davidson’s move to LIV Golf highlights the ongoing debate surrounding transgender athletes in professional sports. While some argue for inclusivity and equal opportunities, others raise concerns about competitive fairness. Davidson has been vocal about her right to compete, emphasizing her commitment to the sport and challenging policies that she views as discriminatory.
DEFECTOR
As Davidson embarks on this new chapter with LIV Golf, the golfing world will be watching closely to see how her participation influences discussions on gender, inclusion, and the future landscape of professional golf.