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Stephanie Turner made a bold stand at a women’s fencing tournament this week. She refused to compete against a male athlete who identifies as a woman, taking a knee instead. This act of defiance cost her the match and got her kicked out of the event. Turner says she couldn’t stay silent while women’s sports are being changed by unfair rules.
The incident happened at the Cherry Blossom Open in Maryland. Turner was set to face Redmond Sullivan, a biological male who now competes in women’s fencing. As soon as the match began, Turner took off her mask and knelt down. She told officials she wouldn’t fence a man in a women’s tournament. Sullivan tried to talk to her, but Turner stood her ground.
Riley Gaines, a well-known advocate for women’s sports, praised Turner’s courage. Gaines called the move a powerful way to say “enough is enough.” Others, like former tennis star Martina Navrátilová, also supported Turner. They argue that letting biological males compete against women ruins the fairness of sports.
Turner knew there would be consequences. She had avoided events with transgender athletes before but decided this time to take action. After the protest, officials gave her a black card—the harshest penalty—and escorted her out. Turner says she’s prepared for backlash but believes she did the right thing.
USA Fencing, which runs the event, allows men to compete as women if they meet certain conditions. Critics say these rules ignore the physical advantages males have over females. Turner says the organization cares more about being politically correct than protecting women’s opportunities.
This isn’t the first time transgender fencers have caused controversy. In 2023, a male athlete named Liz Kocab beat a 14-time women’s champion. Gaines called that win “cheating” and said it disrespects female athletes. Many worry these policies will push women out of their own sports.
Turner’s protest has sparked louder calls to save women’s sports. Supporters say females shouldn’t have to face bigger, stronger opponents just to be “inclusive.” They want sports organizations to put fairness first. Turner hopes her stand inspires others to speak up.
The debate over transgender athletes isn’t going away. For many, Turner’s knee wasn’t just about one match—it was a fight to protect women’s rights. As long as policies ignore biology, everyday athletes like her will keep pushing back. Women’s sports deserve to stay for women.
