In a pivotal case for sports accessibility, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of disabled golfer Casey Martin. Born with Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome, a rare condition affecting blood circulation in his legs, Martin found it almost impossible to walk a full golf course. He contested the Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) rule that required players to walk during tournaments, which he argued unfairly discriminated against individuals with disabilities. Martin sought to use a golf cart during competitions, leading to the landmark case.

The Supreme Court's ruling was a significant victory for Martin and for the disabled community. By a 7-2 decision, the Court stated that the PGA's walking requirement was discriminatory under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This decision set a precedent for the inclusion of disabled athletes in competitive sports, emphasizing the need for accommodations that allow individuals with disabilities to participate fully. The ruling received nationwide publicity and sparked discussions about accessibility in sports, providing momentum for ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive practices.

Martin's ability to compete in professional golf tournaments using a cart opened doors for other athletes with disabilities. The ruling demonstrated that sports organizations must consider adjustments to promote inclusivity, thereby expanding opportunities for hundreds of disabled athletes across various sports disciplines.