New Eligibility Policy for Women’s Tennis
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) is set to implement a new policy that will require all players to undergo genetic sex testing to confirm their eligibility for competition. This decision marks a significant shift in the organisation’s approach to player eligibility, moving towards a genetic basis for defining female athletes.
The new policy, which reportedly came into effect on July 1, 2026, mandates a one-time genetic test, typically administered via a cheek swab. This test aims to determine the presence of the SRY gene, a section of DNA usually found on the Y chromosome that plays a role in the development of testes. The WTA states that this measure is intended to “preserve the integrity of women’s professional tennis and maintain fair competition conditions for all players participating in WTA Tournaments.”
According to a fragment of a new document, players who fail to undergo the requested genetic sex testing or compete while ineligible may face disciplinary action. Such actions could include a period of ineligibility to participate in WTA Tournaments, potentially leading to public knowledge or speculation regarding the reason for their ineligibility.
The WTA’s statement on this mandatory testing, though reportedly removed from its website, indicated an acknowledgment that this is a “sensitive and complex issue.” The organisation expressed a commitment to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful manner. The policy distinguishes between biological sex and gender identity “solely to the extent necessary to ensure that the policy is clear and has its intended effect,” with no intent to disrespect or question any person’s gender identity or dignity.
Shift from Previous Regulations
This new policy represents a notable change from the WTA’s previous “Women’s Eligibility Policy,” which was most recently updated in October 2024. The 2024 version adopted more inclusive language, aiming to facilitate the participation of transgender players and players with differences of sex development who identify as female or non-binary. That policy sought to create a safe and supportive environment free from harassment and discrimination, while also maintaining fair competition.
The prior policy provided a pathway for eligibility based on testosterone levels. Under the 2024 rules, a biological male with a female or non-binary gender identity could gain eligibility to play on the WTA Tour if they demonstrated that their blood testosterone concentration had been below 2.5 nmol/L continuously for the previous 24 months and remained at that level. Legal recognition of a player’s female or non-binary gender identity or surgical anatomical changes were not required for eligibility under the 2024 policy.
The 2024 policy primarily affected players who self-declared or were identified by the WTA Medical Manager based on reliable information. However, the new 2026 policy applies to all players, making genetic screening a universal requirement. This makes the WTA the first independent professional women’s sports league or tour to mandate such genetic screening for all its athletes.
The new policy’s focus on the SRY gene for eligibility has drawn commentary. Dr. Andrew Sinclair, who first identified the SRY gene, has stated that testing for this gene alone is an inadequate method for establishing biological sex. He noted that the presence of the gene does not indicate its function, whether a testis has formed, or if testosterone is produced and utilised by the body.
Broader Context in Women’s Sports
The WTA’s new rule mirrors policies implemented by other international sports bodies, including World Athletics and the International Olympic Committee. The move comes despite there being no known transgender women currently competing on the WTA tour. The policy’s implementation reflects a growing trend within sports organisations to address the eligibility of transgender athletes.
The United States Tennis Association also banned transgender women from competing in women’s events at the end of last year. The founder of the WTA, Billie Jean King, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ rights, has previously spoken out against discrimination in sports. In 2020, she supported transgender athletes’ right to compete in sports aligning with their gender identity, stating that the global athletic community is strengthened by welcoming all athletes.
The new policy document, which has not yet been publicly added to the WTA rulebook or website, refers to a shifting “WTA Women’s Eligibility Policy” available upon request. The policy is being administered by Colorado-based Phuel Sports Science.
The previous policy, which allowed transgender women to compete under specific testosterone thresholds, was governed by the laws of the state of New York.
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Source: benrothenberg.com
