Transgender athlete withdraws legal challenge against Idaho women’s sports legislation

Transgender Athletes Rally in Idaho

This week, transgender athletes in Idaho urged the U.S. Supreme Court to dismiss a challenge to the state law that bars transgender girls and women from competing on girls’ and women’s sports teams. This request was communicated through Lindsay Hecox’s attorney.

Back in July, the Supreme Court agreed to take on the case stemming from Hecox’s situation. Hecox, a trans athlete at Boise State University, had initiated a lawsuit to compete on the university’s women’s cross-country team.

“For Hecox, women’s sports hold great significance, yet her main aim is to graduate and ensure a safe, healthy lifestyle,” the lawyer’s statement indicated. “Thus, Hecox has chosen to withdraw from any women’s sports in Idaho, in accordance with BSU and HB 500.”

The lawyer added that “Hecox is dedicated to refraining from participating in any school-affiliated women’s sports related to HB 500.” Following her decision, Hecox filed a notice of voluntary dismissal on September 2, 2025.

Background on the Case

If the Supreme Court accepts this request, the case would be permanently closed. Hecox had initially raised concerns about HB 500 when she was a freshman at Boise State, arguing that the law infringed on her constitutional rights.

Before this, on August 17, 2020, a district court recognized Hecox’s grievances, suggesting she had a good chance of prevailing in her equal protection claim. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals later upheld the district court’s decision in June 2024 before it escalated to the Supreme Court.

Challenges Faced

Over the last five years, Hecox has dealt with significant personal and academic hardships, which her lawyer emphasized. They noted that issues, including a family illness, have affected her focus on studies and sports participation.

Hecox has persistently remained in college, still striving for strength despite these obstacles. However, she may not graduate until May 2026. Public scrutiny regarding her lawsuit has also weighed heavily on her, potentially distracting her from her studies and personal aspirations.

In the attorney’s submission, it was highlighted that Hecox’s withdrawal meant she had effectively waived her claims, eliminating the chance of reviving the legal battle. The document urged the court to dismiss the underlying case, noting the completed appeal process.