The Women’s Tennis Association has introduced mandatory genetic testing for athletes competing in WTA tournaments. The new rules, reported by BBC News, will take effect on July 21.
To be eligible for competition, players will be required to undergo a one-time test for the SRY gene, or Sex-determining Region Y. It is ordinarily found on the male Y chromosome and helps direct the body’s development along male lines.
Samples will be collected through an inner-cheek swab, a blood test or saliva. Athletes who test negative will be eligible to compete.
A positive result will not lead to automatic disqualification but will require further medical examination. The WTA did not specify what procedures that assessment would involve.
Participants will also be asked to sign a document warning of possible penalties for refusing to undergo testing.
“The WTA’s policy is intended to ensure equal sporting opportunities in women’s professional tennis and uphold fair competition for every player participating in WTA tournaments,” the association said.
The previous version of the rules, adopted in 2024, allowed transgender women to compete in women’s tournaments provided they had maintained reduced testosterone levels for two years before competing. BBC News notes that there are no known cases of such athletes participating in WTA tournaments.
The International Olympic Committee previously adopted a similar approach. Beginning in 2028, participants in women’s events at the Olympic Games and other IOC-sanctioned competitions will be required to undergo a one-time test for the SRY gene.