Sabalenka backs WTA mandatory genetic testing policy

World number one Aryna Sabalenka has publicly endorsed the Women's Tennis Association's new policy requiring mandatory genetic testing for all players, stating it is necessary to preserve fairness in women's competition. The Belarusian star made her comments during a press conference on August 2 ahead of the Canadian Open in Montreal, which began its main draw that day.

The WTA's updated eligibility rules, which took effect on July 21, mandate a one-time test for the SRY gene, a DNA segment commonly associated with the Y chromosome. The policy replaces previous guidelines that allowed transgender women to compete after declaring their gender as female and maintaining testosterone levels below a specified threshold for at least two years. According to the WTA, players can undergo the test via a cheek swab or blood sample.

Sabalenka, returning to competition after a fourth-round loss at Wimbledon, was asked for her views on the controversial policy. She expressed clear support, emphasizing the biological differences between men and women. "I think it's really important to keep the fairness in our tour," Sabalenka said. "It's obviously, biologically, the men are way stronger than...