WTA mandates genetic sex testing for all players

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has announced a new eligibility policy that will require all players to undergo a one-time genetic sex test to compete on the WTA Tour. The policy, which comes into effect immediately, mandates the testing as a condition for participation in WTA tournaments.

According to the updated policy, players must provide a biological sample, such as a cheek swab, blood, or saliva, to test for the presence of the SRY gene. This gene, located on the Y chromosome, is a primary determinant of biological sex and typically triggers the development of male characteristics. A negative result, indicating the absence of the SRY gene, will be required for a player to be eligible to compete on the Tour. Players who test positive for the gene will undergo further medical assessments before their eligibility is determined.

The WTA stated that its women's eligibility policy is designed to promote equal athletic opportunities and maintain fair competition within women's professional tennis. The governing body noted that the policy, first introduced in 1975, has undergone periodic reviews to align with developments in international sport and evolving standards across women's sports. The decision to implement biological sex as the basis for the updated policy followed consultation with WTA members and the WTA board.

“The WTA's women's eligibility policy is designed to promote equal athletic opportunities in women's professional tennis and maintain fair competition for all players participating in WTA tournaments.”

: WTA

“Following the most recent review, which included consultation with WTA members and evolving standards across women's sport, the WTA board approved an updated WTA women's eligibility policy beginning in 2026 based on biological sex.”

: WTA

The new policy also includes a provision requiring players to sign a document acknowledging that refusal to undergo testing could lead to disciplinary action. The WTA has emphasized its commitment to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful manner, recognizing the sensitive and complex nature of the issue.

This move by the WTA follows similar policy changes in other sports. World Athletics introduced new regulations in September 2025 that require athletes competing in the female category to undergo a one-time gene test. World Boxing also approved the use of the SRY test in May 2025 for athletes competing in the women's category. The WTA's previous policy, updated in 2024, permitted transgender women to compete if they had maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for two years. There are currently no known transgender women competing on the WTA Tour.

The updated WTA policy is in place ahead of the 2028 season, with the new regulations set to be fully implemented in the coming years.