American tennis star Coco Gauff addressed the Women’s Tennis Association’s (WTA) SRY gene-testing policy to protect fair competition in the sport.
Gauff appeared to back the new policy meant to keep males out of the women’s game, but also made clear she was in support of the transgender community.
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"I understand the reasoning behind it," she said of the WTA’s policy. "I do think that this kind of conversation has created a lot of animosity toward the trans community, which I'm not really a big fan of, but I also understand the biological difference and the need to protect that and preserve that. So, I think it's a conversation that is very nuanced and I need to have a nuanced answer.
"Yes, 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 (for) people who don't really care, but just want to use this as a reason to attack the trans community. So, I'm not really a big fan of that either. I don't really know how to answer this question in a way that people aren't going to spin it. But as far as where I stand, I definitely support the trans community, but I also support the need of creating fairness in sport too."
Gauff spoke after she defeated Kayla Day in the first round of the National Open in Toronto.
Gauff’s comments follow similar support given by No. 1 women’s tennis player Aryna Sabalenka.
"I think it's really important to keep the fairness in our tour," Sabalenka said. "Biologically, men are way stronger than women, so I feel like it would not really be fair for women to compete against biological men."
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The WTA’s updated women’s eligibility policy requires players to undergo a one-time screening for the SRY gene, which is found on the Y chromosome and is involved in male-typical sex development. Testing can be completed through a simple cheek swab, blood test or saliva sample.
Players who test negative for the SRY gene will be immediately eligible to compete on the WTA Tour. A positive result will prompt further medical assessment before a player can be cleared.
Players must also sign documentation acknowledging that refusing to undergo testing could result in disciplinary action.
"The WTA’s 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," the official policy states.
The WTA said the policy was approved following consultation with its members and a review of evolving eligibility standards throughout international women’s sports.
Fox News’ Amber Harding contributed to this report.
