The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has today introduced a new eligibility policy mandating genetic sex testing for all players wishing to compete on its professional tour. The policy, which came into effect on Tuesday 21st July 2026, requires a one-time test to detect the presence of the SRY gene, a key indicator associated with the development of male characteristics.
Under the new regulations, players will undergo a test, which can be conducted via a cheek swab, blood test, or saliva sample. Should a test return positive for the SRY gene, the individual will be subject to further medical assessment before being granted permission to play. Additionally, players are now required to sign a document acknowledging that refusal to undergo testing could lead to disciplinary action.
This marks a significant shift from the WTA's previous policy, which allowed transgender women to compete after declaring their gender as female and maintaining testosterone levels below a specified threshold of 2.5 nmol/L for a minimum of two years. Despite the policy change, there are currently no known transgender women participating on the WTA Tour or at any level of professional tennis.
The WTA stated that its revised eligibility policy is designed to uphold fair competition and promote equal athletic opportunities within women's professional tennis. The organisation clarified that the policy, first introduced in 1975, has undergone periodic reviews in response to developments across international sport. The most recent review, which included consultation with WTA members and considered evolving standards in women's sport, led the board to approve the new policy based on biological sex.
This decision sees the WTA follow in the footsteps of several other prominent sporting governing bodies. World Athletics implemented similar regulations last September, requiring female athletes to take a one-off gene test. World Boxing also introduced a compulsory SRY test for female athletes in May of last year, while the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced its intention to implement the policy ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The WTA emphasised its commitment to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy respectfully, stating there is no intent to disrespect or question gender identity.