World Aquatics’ groundbreaking initiative to introduce an open category for transgender athletes at the upcoming World Cup in Berlin has faced an unexpected setback- a lack of participants.

This pioneering project had been conceived as a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, with the goal of welcoming swimmers of all gender identities and sexes.

This decision came on the heels of a controversial ruling last year that excluded transgender women from competing in the elite female category.

The “Open” category events, featuring 50 and 100-meter races in all strokes, were poised to create a historic space for transgender athletes to showcase their talents on the world stage.

However, these plans have been halted due to a dearth of entries, dashing the hopes of many who had eagerly anticipated this groundbreaking moment.

Back on July 25, 2023, FINA, the governing body for aquatic sports, made headlines by announcing the addition of the “open” category, offering athletes whose gender identity differs from their sex at birth a platform to compete without restrictions.

While this bold move was met with enthusiasm by advocates for inclusivity, the unfortunate cancellation of the open category at the World Cup in Berlin has left many disappointed.

Nonetheless, World Aquatics remains committed to its mission, pledging to continue its efforts to support transgender sports categories in the future.

“The World Aquatics Open Category Working Group will continue its work and engagement with the aquatic’s community on Open Category events,” they declared.

ALSO READ: Harambee Stars humiliate Asian champions and World Cup hosts Qatar

“Even if there is no current demand at the elite level, the working group is planning to look at the possibility of including Open Category races at Masters events in the future.”

This journey of inclusion has not been without its obstacles. World Aquatics had previously faced criticism in June 2022 when it imposed restrictions on transgender women, sparking a debate about eligibility criteria in sports.

The evolving landscape of transgender athlete regulations underscores the complex challenges faced by organizations like World Aquatics in their pursuit of inclusivity and fairness in the world of sports.