LTA to ban transgender women from playing in most domestic female competitions | Tennis News happymamay

Transgender women will be banned from playing in the women’s category in most domestic tennis competitions in Britain from next month.

Current ATP rules allow players to self-identify, but as of January 25, 2025, trans women and non-binary individuals assigned male at birth will only be allowed to compete in the male category in designated competitions.

These include tennis and padel leagues and tournaments in which players from different clubs and venues participate, from national tournaments to local level.

Events held within the venue, such as club tournaments and social tournaments, are classified as uncapped and it will be up to individual venues to determine their own policy.

The LTA does not have jurisdiction over international events such as Wimbledon, ATP, WTA or ITF Championships, so this policy will only apply to domestic tennis.

Currently, trans women are allowed to compete in the female category of WTA and ITF events provided they meet restrictions on testosterone levels.

The LTA made opening up tennis to all sections of society its core strategy but cited the physiological advantages of males, including longer lifts and increased cardiovascular capacity, to change its policy.

“Tennis and padel are clearly gender-influenced sports, and the average man has an advantage when playing against the average woman,” the statement read.

“The current broad consensus, including the outcome of a review by the Sports Councils Equality Group, is that this advantage is likely to be held to a significant degree for trans women, making competition unfair.

“We are changing our policy to restrict trans women and non-binary individuals assigned male at birth from playing in the women’s category in venue-specific competitions.

“We want to encourage local venues to ensure they are as inclusive as possible for trans and non-binary individuals, providing opportunities to compete in a friendly environment. In line with this, our local tennis league product (largely played in parks) will remain fully inclusive.”

The new policy is the result of an 18-month process that included consultation with affected groups and other sports, and the LTA has pledged to review the policy going forward.

“We recognize the diversity of opinions on this issue and would like to assure the tennis community that the LTA will continue to listen to all views and keep the policy under review in response to emerging research and data, and further guidance from other relevant bodies.” The statement concluded.

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