The WTA announced on Sunday a major update to its women's eligibility policy. Starting Tuesday, July 22, all players on the tour will be required to undergo a one-time genetic test for the SRY gene, a DNA segment found on the Y chromosome involved in male sex development.
The screening can be completed through a cheek swab, blood test, or saliva sample. A single test covers an entire career. Under the updated policy, a "biological male" is defined as an individual carrying the SRY gene, while a "biological female" is an individual without it.
The measure has been introduced as a condition for competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The International Olympic Committee had issued a similar directive in March, following a U.S. executive order from President Donald Trump on women's sports.
World number one Aryna Sabalenka said it would be "unfair" for women to compete against transgender athletes. Former champion Martina Navratilova called it "a step in the right direction" on social media.
The WTA emphasized there is "no intent to disrespect or question the gender identity or the dignity of any person," drawing a distinction between biological sex and gender identity.
Women's tennis joins track and field (World Athletics), boxing (World Boxing), and skiing among sports that have adopted mandatory genetic screening. To date, no known transgender athlete competes at any level of WTA competition.
Human rights experts and activist groups have criticized the approach, arguing it stigmatizes transgender individuals in sport. The debate, which extends far beyond tennis, is expected to intensify as the 2028 Games approach.
