WTA will require genetic sex testing for players

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) required all players to undergo genetic sex testing to compete on the WTA Tour. This new policy, which took effect on July 20, 2026, mandates that players provide a cheek swab, blood, or saliva sample to test for the presence of the SRY gene, associated with male characteristics. Players underwent testing just once in their lifetime, and only a negative result—indicating no presence of the gene—allowed them to compete on the Tour. Positive results necessitated further medical assessment before players could be cleared to play.

Additionally, the WTA policy required players to sign a document indicating that they could face disciplinary action if they refused testing. The previous eligibility policy, updated in 2024, had allowed transgender women to compete on the Tour provided they maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for the previous two years. Currently, there are no known transgender women competing on the WTA Tour.

"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 governing body stated. "Since its introduction in 1975, the eligibility policy has undergone periodic reviews in light of developments in international sports and in consultation with WTA members."

With the latest review, the WTA board approved the updated women’s eligibility policy based on biological sex, which began in 2026. The WTA emphasized its recognition of the sensitive nature of this issue and its commitment to treating all players with dignity while implementing the policy thoughtfully.

This policy change followed a year after World Athletics announced new regulations necessitating athletes wanting to compete in the female category for world ranking competitions to undergo a one-time gene test starting in September 2025. Furthermore, World Boxing approved similar use of the SRY test in May 2025, implementing mandatory sex testing for all athletes wishing to compete in the women’s category.