Women's Tennis Association mandates genetic testing for all female players

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) announced that, starting July 21, 2026, every player on the women’s tour must undergo a one‑time genetic test for the SRY gene to verify biological sex. The test, which can be performed via cheek swab or blood sample, is part of the WTA’s updated eligibility policy and is intended to align with the International Olympic Committee’s guidelines for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

The policy makes professional women’s tennis the first major women's sport to require such testing. While the WTA says the rule aims to preserve fairness, it has drawn criticism from bioethicists, physicians, and rights advocates who warn that intersex athletes—who may carry the SRY gene despite living as women—could face burdensome additional testing and documentation. No transgender women are currently active in professional tennis, and the WTA has not detailed how intersex athletes will be handled beyond stating that further medical review would be required.