Sport: Tennis Country: Global Category: Recruiting

WTA stars respond to new genetic sex testing policy ahead of Cincinnati Open

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 5:27 PM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

WTA stars respond to new genetic sex testing policy ahead of Cincinnati Open

Summary

Top WTA players shared their views on the tour's new genetic sex testing policy at the Montreal Open. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka supported the decision, citing fairness in competition, while World No. 2 Elena Rybakina expressed mixed feelings but said she would comply. Coco Gauff understood the rationale but condemned resulting hate towards the transgender community. Jessica Pegula noted a lack of pushback from players and confirmed that testing is expected to start at the Cincinnati Open, which occurs next week. The policy follows similar decisions in other sports, including the IOC's requirement for female athletes ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•WTA introduces genetic sex testing for players starting at Cincinnati Open next week.
•Sabalenka, Rybakina, Gauff, and Pegula shared their perspectives at the Montreal Open.
•Sabalenka emphasized the importance of fairness in women's sports.
•Gauff raised concerns about negative discourse towards the transgender community.
•Pagula has observed minimal pushback from players on the policy changes.

Latest Updates