As the Tokyo Olympic Games begin, the shadow of controversy already hangs over them. During the U.S. Olympic trials, champion sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson tested positive for marijuana use and received a suspension that effectively barred her from competing, inciting outrage from those who feel that the drug is not a performance enhancer. In addition, hammer thrower Gwen Berry’s act of protest on the medal stand at the track and field trials incensed conservative critics, who demanded that Berry not be allowed to represent the nation. Outside the United States, following global standards regarding testosterone levels, Zambia banned two young 400-meter female runners from participation, one who just ran the fastest time in the world this year. This builds on the 2019 decision to exclude South Africa’s Caster Semenya, who was ruled to be intersex and forced to take testosterone suppressants to continue to compete. And recently, FINA banned swim caps suitable for kinky and curly hair, primarily affecting athletes of color.