Fencer Stephanie Turner, who was been disqualified from a tournament after refusing to compete against a transgender opponent in a women's event, has broken her silence.
The 31-year-old from Maryland dropped to one knee last week at the Cherry Blossom Open in protest.
Her stand against competing with a biological male has drawn international attention, with author JK Rowling praising her as a "heroine" for women's rights.
Turner now faces serious consequences after receiving fencing's most severe punishment - a black card.
Stephanie Turner took the knee in protest after refusing to face her transgender opponentXWhen the draw paired Turner against Redmond Sullivan, she followed through on her pre-determined plan to protest.
"I'm sorry, I cannot do this. I am a woman, this is a man, and this is a women's tournament. And I will not fence this individual," Turner told the referee.
Sullivan had competed in men's fencing as recently as 2023, placing 29th in a men's foil event, before claiming a state title in 2024 in the female category.
Turner had even asked a friend to record her protest to maximize its impact.
In the 72 hours following her disqualification, Turner has received no support from the US Fencing Association.
"Not an email, not a call, not a text," she said.
The black card she received is typically reserved for serious violations of the sport's code of honor.
Turner now faces a lengthy and potentially difficult investigation.
"I may never get a fair bout in my life again," Turner explained. "It's certainly going to be difficult for me to go to tournaments."
She fears her protest will have lasting consequences throughout her fencing career.
Turner was disqualified after refusing to compete against a transgender competitorGB NewsTurner sharply criticised the USFA's transgender policy as inadequate and confusing.
"All you have to do is confirm you have lived as a woman for at least a year," Turner said. "Nobody is checking any hormone levels, puberty blockers, or official documentation about being male or female."
She added: "Grow your hair out, wear a wig, and you can automatically enter the women's division."
The USFA has issued only a vague statement that it "respected the viewpoints on all sides" following the incident.
Stephanie Turner said:
— Jennifer Sey (@JenniferSey) April 3, 2025
"It will probably, at least for a moment, destroy my life.”
Turner knelt to stand up for women's sports.
She's a hero.
Doing the right thing is never wrong.
Share this ad to show her she has our support. pic.twitter.com/S8mCHBzMiD
Turner highlighted safety concerns in fencing against male competitors.
"In sabre, there's a definite risk of concussion," she explained. "In épée, it is a much heavier weapon, so you can get very bruised and bloodied if you are hit particularly hard by a man.
"I wanted to cause a fuss. With a black card, an investigation is forced to happen.
"I want my case to be the one that changes things, because I don't want more women to feel they have to come out for a long battle."
