The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) is introducing a new eligibility requirement that includes mandatory, one-time gene testing for all players seeking to compete on the women’s professional tour. Multiple outlets report that the policy is set to take effect on Tuesday after the WTA updates its eligibility rules. The WTA says the change is intended to “preserve the integrity of women’s professional tennis” and maintain fair competition.
Several reports also link the timing and approach to the lead-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, describing the gene-testing requirement as a condition for eligibility in that Olympic context. One outlet further notes that the WTA previously allowed transgender women to participate if they maintained a lower testosterone level.
Coverage also indicates the WTA is aligning its eligibility framework with guidance introduced by the International Olympic Committee earlier this year. The updated policy is described as using gender screening “based on biological sex.” While the specific testing method is not detailed across the reports provided, all sources agree on the existence of the new mandatory test, its one-time nature, and its effective start date.
