The English Billiards and Pool Federation (EBPF) recently expressed its approval of a court ruling regarding the inclusion of transgender players in cue sports. The organization has stated that it welcomes transgender individuals into its ‘open’ category of competition.

Competitive Dynamics: Male vs. Female Players

According to the EBPF, players assigned male at birth possess certain physical advantages that can impact performance in cue sports. These advantages may include:

• Higher break speed generation
• Greater hand span for bridging over balls
• Longer reach for shots

A spokesperson for the EBPF noted that the court determined the inherent advantages in cue sports necessitate a separation in competition categories, specifically stating that restricting women’s competitions to individuals born female is essential for maintaining fair competition.

Case of Haynes: A Controversial Claim

In a notable case, Haynes filed a complaint after being barred from joining the Kent Women’s A pool team, claiming this exclusion caused her significant emotional distress and subjected her to negative online interactions. She alleged that the exclusion policy violated her rights under the European Convention on Human Rights, specifically regarding privacy and respect for individual identity.

However, the EBPF contended that their policy does not constitute discrimination against Haynes, asserting that it is based on her being assigned male at birth.

Reactions and Future Steps

Matt Champ, a senior associate at Colman Coyle, represented Haynes and commented that they are considering their next steps, including the possibility of an appeal.

In January 2024, Haynes faced online abuse following a controversial match where her opponent, Lynn Pinches, chose to concede during the Women’s Champion of Champions final in Prestatyn instead of competing against her.

Haynes has argued that transgender players have participated in female categories for two decades without clear evidence suggesting any competitive advantage.