Summary
- The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has introduced a new eligibility policy requiring all players to undergo a one-time genetic sex test before competing in professional women’s tennis events.
- According to British media reports, the new policy requires players to provide a cheek swab, blood sample or saliva sample to test for the presence of the SRY gene which is linked to the Y chromosome and plays a key role in the development of male biological characteristics.
- The WTA said the updated policy is intended to ensure fair competition and equal opportunities in women’s tennis while treating all players with respect and dignity.
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has introduced a new eligibility policy requiring all players to undergo a one-time genetic sex test before competing in professional women’s tennis events.
According to British media reports, the new policy requires players to provide a cheek swab, blood sample or saliva sample to test for the presence of the SRY gene which is linked to the Y chromosome and plays a key role in the development of male biological characteristics.
Only players whose tests do not detect the SRY gene will be eligible to compete on the WTA Tour. If the test result is positive, further medical evaluation will be conducted.
Under the new policy, players must also sign a document acknowledging the rules. Refusing to undergo the test could result in disciplinary action.
Previously, under the WTA’s 2024 policy, transgender women were allowed to compete in women’s events if they maintained testosterone levels below the specified limit.
The WTA said the updated policy is intended to ensure fair competition and equal opportunities in women’s tennis while treating all players with respect and dignity.
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