WTA Implements Mandatory SRY Gene Testing for Female Players
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has updated its eligibility policy, effective July 2026, to require every female player to undergo a one‑time genetic test for the SRY gene, which determines biological sex. The testing will commence at the Cincinnati Open, scheduled for 8–23 August 2026, as announced by player‑council member Jessica Pegula.
The policy mandates a cheek swab, blood sample or saliva test. A negative result allows continued competition, while a positive result triggers further medical examinations. No openly transgender women are currently competing on the WTA Tour.
Top players have voiced mixed reactions. Coco Gauff said she understands the fairness goal but worries the measure fuels animosity toward the trans community. Aryna Sabalenka expressed support for the rule, calling it necessary for equity. Jessica Pegula reported little pushback from fellow players so far. Iga Świątek, the world No. 2, will also be subject to the test under the new rules.
Entities: 2028 Los Angeles Olympics · Aryna Sabalenka · Cincinnati Open · Coco Gauff · Jelena Rybakina · Jessica Pegula · SRY gene · SRY gene · SRY gene test · Sophie Cunningham · Women's Tennis Association · Women's Tennis Association (WTA)
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [● 15 SOURCES] Mandatory testing will start at the Cincinnati Open, scheduled for 8–23 August 2026. (Jessica Pegula announcement)
- [● 2 SOURCES] The new policy replaces previous rules that allowed transgender women to compete if they maintained low testosterone for two years. (f937a1b8-b6a8-4e4d-8390-2683519793b5, 6b1a9b96-f9c6-409a-b995-05a5aee10f1c)
- [● 14 SOURCES] Jessica Pegula announced the testing start date. (Pegula interview)
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Jelena Rybakina said she would comply with the test if required. (Jelena Rybakina (player statement))
- [● 13 SOURCES] Aryna Sabalenka publicly supported the new testing policy. (Statement)
- [● 13 SOURCES] The test can be performed using a cheek swab, blood sample, or saliva. (Policy description)
- [● 12 SOURCES] A negative test result allows a player to continue competing; a positive result requires further medical examinations. (Policy description)
- [● 17 SOURCES] The WTA eligibility policy effective July 2026 requires all players to undergo a one‑time SRY gene test. (WTA policy update)
- [● 18 SOURCES] Coco Gauff said the testing policy creates animosity toward the trans community. (Interview)
- [● 4 SOURCES] The WTA policy effective July 2026 requires all female players to undergo a one‑time SRY gene test. (WTA policy update; articles f937a1b8, 6b1a9b96, 04ac00db, 31e33570, 6b1a9b96, etc.)
- [● 16 SOURCES] No openly transgender women are currently competing on the WTA Tour. (Multiple reports)