The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has implemented a new policy requiring players to undergo a one-time genetic test screening for the SRY gene to establish eligibility for competition in the women's category. This measure aims to protect fair competition in professional women's tennis.
The updated policy replaces the previous standard, which allowed transgender-identifying males to compete if they maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for at least two years. The SRY gene, found on the Y chromosome, is involved in male-typical sex development. Testing can be conducted through a cheek swab, blood test, or saliva sample.
Players who test negative for the SRY gene will be deemed immediately eligible to compete on the WTA Tour. A positive result will necessitate further medical assessment before a player can be cleared. The policy also states that refusal to undergo testing may result in disciplinary action.
"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," the official policy states. The WTA indicated that the policy was approved after consulting with its members and reviewing evolving eligibility standards across international women's sports.
The WTA joins other sports organizations such as World Athletics and World Boxing in implementing SRY gene testing for athletes competing in women's categories. The International Olympic Committee has also announced plans to utilize sex testing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova expressed support for the WTA's decision, calling it a "step in the right direction." Navratilova stated on X, "I am very happy that we at the WTA are clear that we are a women’s association and only women, as in females, can compete at the highest level of women’s tennis."
The new policy took effect on Tuesday. The WTA has stated its commitment to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful manner.