Players will need sex test to play on WTA Tour
Summary
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) will require all players to take a genetic test to confirm their sex before they can compete on the WTA Tour. This test looks for a gene linked to male development, and only players without this gene will be allowed to play.Key Facts
- The WTA’s new rule starts in 2026 and asks players for a cheek, blood, or saliva sample to check for the SRY gene found on the Y chromosome.
- Players only need to take this test once in their life.
- If a player tests positive for the gene, they must have more medical checks before they can compete.
- Players must sign a form saying they agree to the test and understand they could face punishment for refusing.
- The previous rule let transgender women compete if their testosterone was kept low for two years.
- There are currently no known transgender women playing on the WTA Tour.
- Other sports like World Athletics and World Boxing have also recently introduced similar genetic sex tests to compete in women’s categories.
- The WTA says the goal is to keep fair competition and treat all players with respect.
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