A new controversy has erupted in U.S. sports. Stephanie Turner, a female fencer, was disqualified after she refused to compete against a transgender athlete. The incident took place on March 30, 2025, at the Cherry Blossom D1A/Veteran Regional Open Circuit at the University of Maryland.

Turner Takes a Stand

Just before the match started, Turner took a knee in protest. As a result, the referees issued a black card, immediately disqualifying her from the tournament.

Later, Turner explained why she made this decision. "I saw that I was going to be in a pool with Redmond, and from there I said, ‘OK, let’s do it. I’m going to take the knee,’” she told Fox News Digital.

She further stated that her action was meant to protest USA Fencing’s gender eligibility policy. "I knew what I had to do because USA Fencing had not been listening to women’s objections."

Additionally, Turner described her direct exchange with Redmond Sullivan, her transgender opponent. "I’m sorry, I cannot do this. I am a woman, and this is a man. This is a women’s tournament, and I will not fence this individual."

At first, Sullivan misunderstood the situation. "He asked, ‘Are you OK?’ And I said, ‘I’m sorry. I have much love and respect for you, but I will not fence you.’”

USA Fencing Defends Its Decision

Meanwhile, USA Fencing responded to the controversy. A spokesperson clarified that Turner was not penalized for her beliefs but rather for violating the competition rules. "Her disqualification was not related to any personal statement but was merely the direct result of her decision to decline to fence an eligible opponent."

According to International Fencing Federation (FIE) rules, all fencers must compete against registered opponents. Rule t.113 states that any refusal leads to automatic disqualification and possible sanctions. Officials emphasized that these rules ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the sport.

Navratilova Condemns USA Fencing

Meanwhile, tennis legend Martina Navratilova strongly criticized USA Fencing. She has been vocal against transgender inclusion in women’s sports. "This is what happens when female athletes protest! Anyone here still thinks this is fair??? I am fuming… and shame on @USAFencing. How dare you throw women under the gender bullshit bus!!!"

Sullivan’s Fencing Career

On the other hand, Sullivan has a history in fencing. In 2024, they switched from competing in the men’s division to joining the Wagner College women’s team. Later that year, they secured first place in the Junior Women’s Foil event at the Connecticut Division Junior Olympic Qualifiers, outperforming five other competitors.