American tennis player Coco Gauff has stated her support for the Women’s Tennis Association’s (WTA) new SRY gene-testing policy, designed to ensure fair competition in women's sports. Gauff acknowledged the policy’s intent to maintain biological distinctions in athletic categories while also emphasizing her support for the transgender community and criticizing the animosity directed towards them.
"I understand the reasoning behind it," Gauff said regarding the WTA’s policy. "I do think that this kind of conversation has created a lot of animosity toward the trans community, which I'm not really a big fan of, but I also understand the biological difference and the need to protect that and preserve that."
Gauff's remarks came after her first-round win at the National Open in Toronto. She articulated a nuanced stance, stating, "Yes, I guess I kind of agree with trying to protect the fairness in women's sports. But I also do not like the attack that it is creating (for) people who don't really care, but just want to use this as a reason to attack the trans community."
She was careful to note her position, adding, "I don't really know how to answer this question in a way that people aren't going to spin it. But as far as where I stand, I definitely support the trans community, but I also support the need of creating fairness in sport too."
Gauff’s comments echo sentiments previously expressed by Aryna Sabalenka, the current No. 1 ranked women’s player. Sabalenka stated, "I think it's really important to keep the fairness in our tour. Biologically, men are way stronger than women, so I feel like it would not really be fair for women to compete against biological men."
The WTA's updated policy mandates a one-time screening for the SRY gene, which is present on the Y chromosome and plays a role in male sex development. Players who test negative for the SRY gene are immediately eligible to compete. Those who test positive will undergo further medical evaluation.
According to the official policy, the WTA aims to "promote equal athletic opportunities in women’s professional tennis and maintain fair competition for all players participating in WTA tournaments." The policy was developed after consultations with WTA members and a review of evolving international standards for women's sports eligibility.