I'm curious about anybody's experience in sports. I (trans female) play a lot of tennis and recently started entering tournaments. I know that this is a very divisive discussion, but I'm curious to learn about others experiences.

I know from blood tests that my testosterone level is very low, lower even than most cis females. I do wonder though what other factors are at play? Do I have an advantage just from masculine conditioning and perhaps more exposure to sports from a young age? Does my increased bone mass have some advantage? Does the male tendency to be more aggressive factor into it?

So far, as of today, I've played one tournament and I lost one close match. I do think I play with a bit more power than other females at my level, but that isn't making me overwhelming thus far. And I also practiced last year with a former high school and college level female and there was NO comparison to her skill and power. She was on a very different level. It was quite humbling.

I'm not somebody that automatically thinks that this is a black and white issue. I am very concerned that I may have some advantage or at least be perceived that way. But do I? Does it matter as much in tennis? How about judo? Or baseball?

The fact that I lost that tournament helped me feel a little better that I was in the right division and not cheating in some way. I also feel, although I'm not sure, that I could compete in the men's division at the same level. I think there's an adjustment to the style of play, but I don't believe I would be overwhelmed.

Anyway, I'd love to hear anyone else's experiences and thoughts. From the other perspective too. How do trans masculine athletes feel about this?