The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) announced on Sunday that players will be required to undergo a one-time genetic test for the SRY gene, which helps determine biological sex, to compete on the women's tour. The new eligibility policy takes effect Tuesday.

The test can be conducted via a cheek swab or blood test. The previous WTA policy allowed transgender women to participate if they declared their gender as female and maintained lowered testosterone levels for two years. Currently, no known transgender women are active in professional tennis.

A WTA spokesperson told Reuters: "Eligibility to participate in WTA tournaments will be confirmed through a required, one-time screening process for the SRY gene. Player screening will begin in 2026."

Transgender player Renee Richards competed on the women's tour from 1977 to 1981, later coaching Martina Navratilova, who has been an outspoken critic of transgender inclusion in sports. In contrast, Billie Jean King views transgender exclusion as discrimination.

Several sports federations, including World Athletics and World Boxing, have introduced similar gene tests. In March, the International Olympic Committee stated that only biological female athletes who pass a one-time test would be eligible for women's events at the Olympics. Transgender advocacy groups argue that exclusion amounts to discrimination, while critics say male puberty provides an unfair advantage.

Source: www.aljazeera.com