Martina Navratilova backs WTA mandatory sex‑testing rule for women’s tennis

Former champion Martina Navratilova has reiterated her opposition to transgender women competing in women’s sports, citing the 1998 exhibition in which Serena and Venus Williams lost to 203rd‑ranked male player Karsten Braasch. She reposted the incident on social media to argue that biological men should not be allowed in women’s categories.

Navratilova also criticized Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase for defending the inclusion of transgender athletes after WNBA guard Sophie Cunningham’s comments sparked debate. Navratilova praised the Women’s Tennis Association’s new mandatory sex‑testing policy, which requires a cheek swab, saliva or blood sample to detect the SRY gene. Players testing negative may compete, while positive results trigger further medical assessment. She thanked the WTA for “protecting the female category.” The policy has drawn mixed reactions, with some former players such as Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs opposing it.