New policy comes into effect on Tuesday and aims ‘to promote equal athletic opportunities’
WTA's new eligibility policy involves a one-time test for the presence of the SRY gene, which is associated with male sex development. Photograph: GettyTennis players will be required to undergo genetic sex testing to compete on the Women’s Tennis Association Tour.
The new eligibility policy, which comes into effect on Tuesday, involves a one-time test for the presence of the SRY gene, which is associated with male sex development. If a test is positive for the presence of the SRY gene, the player will face further medical assessment before being allowed to play.
Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev in Wimbledon decider after one-sided semi-finals Under the previous policy transgender women could compete after declaring their gender as female and maintaining testosterone levels below the WTA’s required threshold for at least two years.
“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 said. “Since first being introduced in 1975, the eligibility policy has undergone periodic review in light of developments across international sport.
“Following the most recent review, which included consultation with WTA members and evolving standards across women’s sport, the board approved a new policy beginning in 2026 based on biological sex. ” Players must sign a document that states they may face disciplinary action if they refuse to be tested.
“The WTA recognises that this is a sensitive and complex issue and is committed to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful way,” the governing body said. Novak Djokovic is at peace with ageing; Cristiano Ronaldo remains between anger and denialLuke Combs at Slane review: Country star struggles to keep crowd onside for full 120-minute showMaradona backs Branco's claim of 'drug-laced' bottle at Italia '90Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers
Please follow us on Google to support usIreland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The Story of Tomita Tamako: A Table Tennis Prodigy's JourneyA heartwarming tale of overcoming obstacles and finding success through the power of table tennis.
Read more »
The Chase's Darragh Maguire Debunks Backstage Myth and Announces Irish Tour DatesDarragh Maguire, The Chase's 'Menace', addresses viewer misconceptions about Chaser backstage routines, discusses the show's enduring appeal, details the new Around The World spin-off, and shares his lively Irish quiz tour schedule.
Read more »
Jack Conan says Ireland were ‘a little bit soft’ against the All BlacksIreland forward was of the view that this tour will prove beneficial in the long run
Read more »
Gogglebox Ireland is back for a new season and looking for brand new sofa starsThe hit Virgin Media show is currently on the lookout for new friends and families to join the line-up and offer their weekly opinion on the biggest TV shows and movies
Read more »