Can Hailey Davidson Become the First Transgender Golfer to Earn an LPGA Card?

Hailey Davidson just did the unthinkable! She became the first transgender golfer to secure a victory at the NXXT Women’s Classic in Florida. But with this win, fans and haters alike have also started to wonder if this will qualify her to play in any LPGA Tour events.

There is no doubt that with this win the 30-year-old has advanced her strive towards LPGA Tour events. But the news of the triumph has sparked a heated debate online. However, a closer look into the LPGA Tour guidelines reveals whether Davidson’s win in Florida was enough or not to play in LPGAT events.

With her recent win, the transgender golfer has taken yet another step to becoming the first transgender woman to earn a Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) tour card. And if you are wondering whether or not she can play in those events, the short answer is yes!

Back in 2010, The LPGA Tour removed their requirement for golfers to be ‘female at birth’. This rule change led to more inclusive gameplay, allowing Hailey Davidson to compete. According to the change in rules, the policy requires transgender athletes to provide a declaration of their gender identity, proof of gender reassignment surgery, and evidence of at least one year of hormonal therapy maintaining testosterone levels at a specified range.

Has Hailey Davidson qualified for any LPGA Tour events yet?

Davidson’s win at the Florida tournament gives her better access to her dream of competing in the LPGA Tour. The victory has propelled her to the top of the NXXT Tour’s leaderboard, where she has a total score of 1320. Furthermore, she has a staggering 150 points lead over second place. At the end of the tour’s schedule, 10 exemptions will be awarded to the top five points leaders to participate in the Epson Tour.

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Now if the 30-year-old wants to gain the Tour card, she has to perform well in the Epson Tour, as it is the qualifying event for the LPGA Tour. Five events have already been completed in the NXXT Tour’s schedule. With eight more to go, Davidson has a high probability of playing in the Epson Tour.

The NXXT Tour will end with the Tour Championship in Ocala, Florida from March 25 to 27. While she already has the support from Caitlyn Jenner, it looks like Hailey Davidson will be taking another step towards her dream of playing in the LPGA Tour.

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