I understand the International Chess Federation has banned transgender women from competing in women’s chess tournaments. I can see the logic of denying transgender women from competing against cis-women in sports where their alleged masculine physique might give them a physical advantage. Certainly, in chess, things like muscle mass and bone strength or hormonal levels are totally irrelevant. Women’s and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups are outraged, and rightfully so!

Having said that, why are there are there such things as “Women’s Chess Matches” in the first place?
Like spelling bees or poker games, all chess competitions should be open to all genders all the time! It might make sense to set up age categories, but not sexual ones.

World chess champions and chess grandmasters are primarily male. So, they are also primarily Russian. What does that prove, other than cultural preferences for the game? The best pro basketball players are primarily African-Americans, but I doubt its in their DNA. I am convinced that the gender disparity is simply the result of culture and of the fact that stiffer competition improves the field. Men playing against other men in a field dominated by men will eventually produce champions who are men. If women are allowed to compete with men, not only will it improve women’s play, it will attract more women to the game and eventually, the statistical gender differences will disappear. I see no reason why women can’t be as good as men in chess, all else being equal. I’m convinced that eventually, the male domination of the sport will disappear, although it may take some time. If there is a reason one sex is superior to the other, then we all need to know why, and as soon as possible.

I agree that in sports where physical strength, speed and endurance are an issue, it is fair to regulate trans-competitors for reasons of fairness. But not chess. However, there will be one unintended consequence of such a policy. Women who are now top-rated against other women will suddenly find themselves seen as mediocre when forced to play against superior male opponents. Sure, this disparity will eventually disappear over a generation or two, but for the time being, many celebrated contemporary female players will suddenly find themselves considered second-rate.

I suspect that fact will operate behind the scenes to affect the character of this debate.