Archive · 3 Aug 2025
Nikki Hiltz Concerned About Gene Tests in Athletics
World Athletics plans to start gene testing female athletes to check for a gene (SRY) that indicates male characteristics.
Athlete Nikki Hiltz, who is transgender and non-binary, is worried this could lead to stricter, more intrusive tests in the future.
Hiltz fears this is a 'slippery slope' and that the focus should be on solving real problems like abusive coaches and doping, not gene testing.
Athletes who don't have the gene can compete in women's events.
The organization claims the test is accurate, using a cheek swab or blood sample.
Nikki Hiltz, a transgender and non-binary athlete, expressed concern over World Athletics' plan to introduce gene testing for female athletes.
Hiltz worries about the potential for more invasive techniques by other organizations.
World Athletics will conduct tests for the SRY gene, which is found on the Y chromosome and responsible for the development of male characteristics.
Athletes testing negative for the Y chromosome are eligible to compete in the female category.
Hiltz believes resources should be directed towards issues like abusive coaches and doping.
- Who
- Nikki Hiltz, a transgender and non-binary athlete, is expressing concern.
- What
- World Athletics is introducing gene testing for female athletes.
- When
- As of August 3, 2025
- Where
- Not explicitly mentioned.
- Why
- Hiltz is concerned about the precedent the testing sets and its potential for more invasive practices.
Athlete's Perspective
World Athletics' Position
Invasiveness
Athlete's Perspective
Hiltz views the tests as potentially leading to more invasive measures, expressing concern over the precedent set.
World Athletics' Position
The article does not contain the opposite view
Resource Allocation
Athlete's Perspective
Hiltz believes resources should be directed towards issues like abusive coaches and doping instead.
World Athletics' Position
The article does not contain the opposite view
- Athlete
- Nikki Hiltz
- Sport
- Athletics
- Age
- 30
- Category
- Female
- Testing Method
- SRY gene test