Quinn, 25, has only one name and came out last year via Instagram as transgender and non-binary. As an umbrella term, the latter includes people who are neither male nor female. Accordingly, Quine prefers gender-neutral pronouns that he/she does.

“I wanted to be authentic in all areas of my life, and that includes in public spaces,” Quinn said at the time. Because a large part of this space is (still) strictly binary.

All the more important role models appear, like Quinn, from US club OL Reign in Seattle, raising awareness. “I get messages from young people saying they’ve never seen a transgender person in a game,” Quinn told CBC, after Canada sensationally defeated big favorite USA in the semi-finals.

There is still a long way to go for acceptance

The story of Quinn, who has been a part of the Canadian women’s national team since 2014, may have received less attention around the Olympic Games because, unlike Hubbard, the question of physical advantage does not arise. Even from Quinn’s point of view, the road to greater acceptance is still a long one.

“With trans girls being banned from sport, trans women face discrimination and prejudice when trying to pursue their Olympic dreams,” said Quinn, summarizing the problem in sport. “The fight,” said Quinn, “is not over yet.”

(SID)