What does science tell us about boxing’s gender row?

The topic of gender in sports, particularly in boxing, has sparked a significant debate recently, especially with the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris. The focus is on two boxers, Imane Khelif from Algeria and Lin Yu-ting from Taiwan, who have been cleared to compete in the women's boxing category. This decision has raised eyebrows because both athletes were disqualified from the Women's World Championships last year due to not meeting the eligibility criteria. The controversy has led to a deeper examination of what science reveals about gender, chromosomes, and their implications in sports. At the heart of this discussion is the understanding of chromosomes, which are the structures in our cells that carry genetic information. Typically, females have two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). These chromosomes play a crucial role in determining a person's sex. However, hormones also significantly influence sexual development, both before birth and during puberty. While a baby is developing in the womb, hormones are responsible for the formation of reproductive organs. In some cases, however, the development does not follow the typical pattern, leading to what are known as differences in sex development (DSDs). There are approximately 40 different conditions that can affect how a person's sex develops, and these variations can lead to unique genetic makeups. The ongoing debate surrounding Khelif and Yu-ting has brought these issues to the forefront, as both athletes reportedly failed gender eligibility tests last year. However, there is conflicting information regarding whether they possess XY chromosomes or elevated testosterone levels. While representatives for the boxers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) assert that both athletes were 'born women, raised as women, and have always competed as women,' critics, including some of their opponents, have speculated that they may have DSDs. This speculation raises important questions about the relationship between chromosomes and gender identity. Experts like Professor Alun Williams from Manchester Metropolitan University emphasize that simply having a Y chromosome does not definitively determine whether someone is male or female. He points out that while most individuals with a Y chromosome are male, there are exceptions. For instance, some individuals with DSDs may have an atypical Y chromosome that is not fully formed or may lack the SRY gene, which is essential for male development. Dr. Emma Hilton, a developmental biologist, further explains that some people with XY chromosomes do not produce testosterone and develop typical female anatomy. This complexity highlights the limitations of using chromosome testing alone to determine gender in sports. In the case of Khelif and Yu-ting, the International Boxing Association (IBA) has not disclosed the specifics of their testing, leaving many questions unanswered. The ongoing debate about gender in sports is complicated by the fact that there are many variations in how chromosomes and hormones function in different individuals. For example, some individuals with DSDs may have XY chromosomes but do not exhibit typical male characteristics. This complexity makes it challenging to establish clear guidelines for who should compete in which category in sports. As the conversation continues, experts are calling for more research to better understand how these genetic differences impact athletic performance. They argue that more data is necessary to make informed decisions about eligibility in sports. The IOC faces pressure to ensure that its rules are grounded in solid scientific evidence. As the discussion around gender and sports evolves, it is evident that this issue will remain a contentious topic in the future.