WTA begins mandatory gene testing for women’s tour

The Women's Tennis Association has introduced mandatory genetic sex testing for all players on its tour, requiring a one-time screening for the SRY gene as a condition of eligibility to compete in professional women's tennis.

The policy, which took effect on Wednesday, July 22, replaces the WTA's previous framework that allowed transgender women to compete provided they maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for at least two years. Under the new rules, players must provide a cheek swab, blood sample, or saliva sample to be tested for the SRY gene, a segment of DNA typically found on the Y chromosome that triggers male sex development.ESPN+2

How the Policy Works

Players who test negative for the SRY gene will be cleared to compete indefinitely with no further testing required. Those who test positive will undergo additional medical evaluation before any eligibility decision is made — a positive result does not automatically disqualify a player. Players must also sign documentation acknowledging they may face disciplinary action if they refuse testing.Sky Sports+3

"Eligibility to participate in WTA tournaments will be confirmed through a required, one-time screening process for the SRY gene," a WTA spokesperson told Reuters. "Player screening will begin in 2026, following all appropriate confidentiality and data privacy safeguards and concurrent with a comprehensive player engagement program."The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO

The WTA said the policy distinguishes between biological sex and gender identity, stating there is "no intent to disrespect or question the gender identity or the dignity of any person."ESPN

Context and Reaction

The move makes the WTA the first independent professional women's sports league to institute mandatory SRY gene screening, according to ESPN. It aligns the tour with the International Olympic Committee's eligibility framework introduced in March ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, as well as similar policies from World Athletics and World Boxing.KMTV 3 News Now Omaha+1

There are no known transgender women currently competing on the WTA Tour.PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news+1

Martina Navratilova, the 18-time Grand Slam singles champion, voiced support for the measure after a critic called it "invasive" and "transphobic." Navratilova argued the test is a straightforward measure to protect fairness in women's sport, calling it "nothing transphobic about it" and describing the policy as a "step in the right direction."Tennisuptodate.com+1

Critics, including transgender advocacy groups, have called the rule discriminatory and raised concerns about data privacy and the potential impact on athletes with differences of sex development who may test positive despite competing as women their entire lives.Particle News+1