Coco Gauff, the two-time Grand Slam winner, addressed the recent gene-testing policy by the WTA Tour. She expressed understanding of the policy’s objective but opposed the political nature of discussions surrounding it, which she believes fuels animosity towards the transgender community.
Following her win over Kayla Day at the Canadian Open in Toronto, Gauff highlighted her need for a nuanced discussion on the topic. “Yes, I understand the importance of fairness in women’s sports. However, I dislike how it’s framing an attack on the trans community,” she stated.
Her comments refer to the WTA’s recent mandate for mandatory gene-testing ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The tests, focusing on the SRY gene found on the Y chromosome, aim to determine male sex development.
It remains uncertain if transgender women currently compete at the Olympic level or within the WTA Tour. The WTA clarified that the policy differentiates between biological sex and gender identity, affirming there is no intention to undermine anyone’s gender identity or dignity.
The gender screening aligns with policies by track and field, skiing, and boxing authorities but faces criticism from human rights experts. Gauff suggested more transparency in implementing the policy, pointing out that some players only learned about it during its announcement.
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