The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) announced that all players must undergo a one-time genetic test for the SRY gene to be eligible to compete on the women’s tour, effective July 21, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The SRY gene, located on the Y chromosome, determines biological sex related to male development [1, 2, 6, 5]. Tests can be performed using a cheek swab, blood test, or saliva sample [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Players who test negative for the SRY gene will be eligible to compete without restriction [2, 5]. Those who test positive may face further medical assessment before receiving clearance to participate [2, 5]. All players must sign documentation acknowledging potential disciplinary action if they refuse testing [2, 5].

A WTA spokesperson said, "Eligibility to participate in WTA tournaments will be confirmed through a required, one-time screening process for the SRY gene" [1]. Screening will include strict confidentiality and data privacy safeguards alongside a comprehensive player engagement program [1]. The organization emphasized the aim "to promote equal athletic opportunities in women’s professional tennis and maintain fair competition for all players participating in WTA tournaments" [5].

This policy replaces the previous 2024 WTA rule that allowed transgender women to compete if they maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for two consecutive years [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The new approach defines eligibility based strictly on biological sex as determined by the presence or absence of the SRY gene, regardless of legal sex or gender identity [6]. WTA legend Martina Navratilova praised the change, stating she is "very happy that we at the WTA are clear that we are a women’s association and only women, as in females, can compete at the highest level of women’s tennis" [5].

The policy aligns with recent moves by other sports federations. World Boxing introduced mandatory SRY gene testing for female category athletes in May 2025, and World Athletics followed with similar regulations in September 2025 [2]. The International Olympic Committee also announced in March 2026 that only biological females verified by a one-time test would be eligible for female events at the 2028 Olympics [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Transgender advocacy groups have criticized the WTA’s approach as discriminatory [1, 3, 4]. Critics argue that male puberty confers musculoskeletal advantages that are not eliminated by transition [1, 3, 4]. Tennis player Aryna Sabalenka had earlier said it would be unfair for women to compete against transgender players [1, 3, 4], while Billie Jean King viewed any exclusion of transgender athletes as discrimination [1, 3, 4].

Currently, no transgender women are competing on the WTA Tour at any level [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Player testing under the new policy will commence in 2026, with the full policy taking effect during the upcoming tour season [1].