All women’s tour players must complete one-time screening under updated eligibility rules.
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has introduced mandatory one-time genetic testing for all players, marking a major change to its eligibility rules as the sport prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Testing Becomes Mandatory
The WTA said all players competing on the women’s professional tennis tour must undergo a one-time genetic screening beginning Tuesday, July 21, 2026. Completion of the test will also be required for athletes seeking eligibility to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Policy Focuses on Biological Sex
Under the updated women’s eligibility policy, screening will be based on biological sex and is intended to protect the integrity of women’s professional tennis while maintaining fair competitive conditions. The WTA said the policy distinguishes biological sex from gender identity.
Players Tested for SRY Gene
The screening will test for the SRY gene, a DNA segment typically found on the Y chromosome that plays a central role in initiating male sex development before birth. Under the policy, the presence or absence of the SRY gene will be used to determine eligibility for the women’s category.
Olympic Rules Drive Change
The WTA’s decision brings the tour into line with an eligibility framework introduced by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March. That policy was developed ahead of the Los Angeles Games and followed a US executive order addressing participation in women’s sports.
WTA Defends Athlete Dignity
The organization said the updated rules were not intended to disrespect athletes or question anyone’s gender identity or dignity. However, the policy creates a formal biological eligibility standard that every player must satisfy before competing.
The WTA’s new testing policy could reshape how women’s tennis manages eligibility, privacy, and competitive fairness before the 2028 Olympics. The development is also relevant to Indonesia and Singapore as athletes, national associations, and sports regulators across Asia prepare to follow evolving international standards.
Sources: Asia One (2026) , ABC News (2026)
Keywords: WTA Gene Testing, Women’s Tennis Eligibility, SRY Gene Test, 2028 Olympics, Gender Screening, Tennis Policy
