Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The WTA has announced that tennis players to play on the women’s tour will be required to undergo genetic gender testing.
In an update to its eligibility policy, the WTA confirmed that athletes will be required to undergo a one-time test for the SRY gene, which determines biological sex, effective Tuesday, with players facing disciplinary action if they refuse the test.
Previous WTA rules allowed transgender women to participate if their declared gender was female and they maintained low testosterone levels for two years before competing.
There are no known transgender women on the WTA Tour or at any level of professional tennis.
Indian Wells will host this year’s WTA Finals
“The updated policy is intended to provide a clear eligibility standard for participation in WTA tournaments,” a statement from the WTA said.
“Eligibility to participate in WTA tournaments will be confirmed through a one-time screening process, required for the SRY gene.
“Player screening will begin in 2026, following all appropriate privacy and data privacy protections and in conjunction with a comprehensive player engagement program.
“The WTA recognizes that this is a sensitive and complex issue and is committed to treating all players with respect and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful manner.”
The rules changed following the implementation of SRY testing for female athletes by World Athletics and World Boxing in 2025.
