Coco Gauff Discusses WTA’s Policy on SRY Gene Testing

American tennis player Coco Gauff commented on the Women’s Tennis Association’s (WTA) SRY gene-testing policy aimed at ensuring fair competition. Gauff expressed support for the new policy, which intends to prevent males from participating in women’s events. At the same time, she emphasized her support for the transgender community.

Gauff remarked, “I understand the reasoning behind it. I do think that this kind of conversation has created a lot of animosity toward the trans community, which I’m not a big fan of, but I also understand the biological difference and the need to protect that.” She acknowledged the complexity of the issue and her struggle to provide a definitive stance that wouldn’t be misconstrued.

She continued, “I guess I kind of agree with trying to protect the fairness in women’s sports. But I also do not like the attack that it is creating on people who don’t really care but just want to use this as a reason to attack the trans community.” Gauff specified her dual support for creating fairness in sports while standing with the trans community.

Gauff’s views align with Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked women’s tennis player, who stated, “I think it’s really important to keep the fairness in our tour. Biologically, men are way stronger than women, so I feel like it would not be fair for women to compete against biological men.”

The WTA’s updated policy mandates a one-time screening for the SRY gene, located on the Y chromosome and linked to male sex development. This testing, done through cheek swab, blood test, or saliva sample, determines player eligibility. Those tested negative can compete immediately, while a positive result leads to further medical evaluation. Players must acknowledge that refusal to test may result in disciplinary action.

The WTA states, “The women’s eligibility policy is designed to promote equal athletic opportunities in women’s professional tennis and maintain fair competition for all players participating in WTA tournaments.” This policy emerged after consultation with stakeholders and studying updated eligibility standards in international women’s sports.