A female surfer announced she will no longer compete in the World Surf League unless it reverses its ‘trans-inclusive’ policy that allows biological men to compete against women. 

The World Surf League (WSL) implemented the policy change late last year, allowing biological men to compete against women as long as they “identify” as women and their testosterone levels aren’t too high.

Surfing icon Bethany Hamilton said she will not compete in any WSL event as long as the rule remains in place.

“This concerns me as a professional athlete that has been competing in the WSL events for the past fifteen plus years,” 

“I think many of the girls currently on tour are not in support of this new rule and they fear being ostracized if they speak up.”

Hamilton asked people to consider how this rule has impacted other sports such as swimming. 

“I think it’s really hard to imagine what the future of women’s surfing will be like in 15 to 20 years down the road if we move forward allowing this major change,” she added. 

“I personally won’t be competing in or supporting the World Surf League if this rule remains,” Hamilton said.

The veteran Hamilton, 32, became an international sports icon after a shark bit off her arm in 2003. The following year, at just 14 years old, Hamilton won the NSSA National Competition. She followed that up in 2005 with another win.

Her last win came in 2014 at the Surf ‘n’ Sea Pipeline Women’s Pro.

Following her announcement, a few prominent female athletes expressed support for her decision, including US swimmer Riley Gains.

“This is HUGE! Thank you ⁦@bethanyhamilton⁩ for standing strong and using your powerful platform and voice to advocate for women. Even more of a role model than you already are for so many,” Gains said.