The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) will require all players to undergo genetic sex testing to compete on its tour, according to an updated eligibility policy set to take effect on Tuesday. The new regulations mandate that players provide a biological sample, such as a cheek swab, blood, or saliva, to test for the presence of the SRY gene, which is typically found on the Y chromosome and is associated with male development.
Under the policy, each player will be tested once in their lifetime. A negative result, indicating the absence of the SRY gene, will permit them to compete. Players who test positive will undergo further medical assessment before their eligibility is determined.
The WTA stated that the updated policy is designed to "promote equal athletic opportunities in women's professional tennis and maintain fair competition for all players." The governing body also noted that the policy has been periodically reviewed since its introduction in 1975, with the most recent update incorporating consultations with WTA members and evolving standards across women's sports. The policy will be based on biological sex beginning in 2026.
Players who refuse testing may face disciplinary action, according to the new policy. The WTA acknowledged the sensitive and complex nature of the issue, committing to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy respectfully.
This move follows similar measures adopted by other international sports organizations. In September 2025, World Athletics introduced new regulations requiring a one-time gene test for athletes seeking to compete in the female category for world ranking competitions. World Boxing also approved the use of the SRY test in May 2025, implementing mandatory sex testing for athletes in the women's category.
The WTA's previous policy, updated in 2024, allowed transgender women to compete if they maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for two consecutive years. Currently, there are no known transgender women competing on the WTA Tour. Maze runner with long fingernails tossing a tennis ball in front of a net featuring WTA.