The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has announced a major change to its women's eligibility policy, introducing mandatory one-time genetic sex testing for all players wishing to compete on the WTA Tour. The updated policy comes into effect on Tuesday and requires athletes to undergo a genetic test using a cheek swab, saliva sample or blood sample to determine the presence of the SRY gene, a gene located on the Y chromosome that is associated with male biological development.&nbsp;Under the new rules, players will only need to take the test once during their lifetime. A negative result confirming the absence of the SRY gene will make a player eligible to compete on the WTA Tour. Players who test positive will be required to undergo additional medical assessment before a decision is made regarding their eligibility. The revised regulations also require players to sign a declaration acknowledging that refusing to undergo testing could result in disciplinary action.&nbsp;The WTA's previous eligibility policy, introduced in 2024, allowed transgender women to compete if they had maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for at least two continuous years. At present, there are no known transgender women competing on the WTA Tour. Explaining the changes, the WTA said, “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.” "Since first being introduced in 1975, the eligibility policy has undergone periodic review in light of developments across international sport."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-the-hidden-ritual-marc-cucurella-performed-before-spain-won-the-fifa-world-cup-1784584456643">Revealed! The hidden ritual Marc Cucurella performed before Spain won the FIFA World Cup</a>&nbsp;"Following the most recent review, which included consultation with WTA members and evolving standards across women's sport, the WTA board approved an updated WTA women's eligibility policy beginning in 2026 based on biological sex."&nbsp;The governing body also acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue. “The WTA recognises that this is a sensitive and complex issue and is committed to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful way.” The move follows similar policy changes made by other international sports organisations.&nbsp;In September 2025, World Athletics introduced mandatory one-time genetic sex testing for athletes competing in women's world ranking events. Earlier that year, World Boxing also adopted mandatory SRY gene testing for athletes entering women's competitions. The WTA's updated policy reflects a broader trend among international sporting bodies reviewing eligibility rules for women's competitions while aiming to balance fairness, inclusion and athlete welfare.

The WTA has introduced mandatory one-time genetic sex testing for all players competing on the WTA Tour under its updated women's eligibility policy, effective from 2026

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has announced a major change to its women's eligibility policy, introducing mandatory one-time genetic sex testing for all players wishing to compete on the WTA Tour. The updated policy comes into effect on Tuesday and requires athletes to undergo a genetic test using a cheek swab, saliva sample or blood sample to determine the presence of the SRY gene, a gene located on the Y chromosome that is associated with male biological development. Under the new rules, players will only need to take the test once during their lifetime. A negative result confirming the absence of the SRY gene will make a player eligible to compete on the WTA Tour. Players who test positive will be required to undergo additional medical assessment before a decision is made regarding their eligibility. The revised regulations also require players to sign a declaration acknowledging that refusing to undergo testing could result in disciplinary action. The WTA's previous eligibility policy, introduced in 2024, allowed transgender women to compete if they had maintained testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for at least two continuous years. At present, there are no known transgender women competing on the WTA Tour. Explaining the changes, the WTA said, “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.” "Since first being introduced in 1975, the eligibility policy has undergone periodic review in light of developments across international sport." Also Read: Revealed! The hidden ritual Marc Cucurella performed before Spain won the FIFA World Cup "Following the most recent review, which included consultation with WTA members and evolving standards across women's sport, the WTA board approved an updated WTA women's eligibility policy beginning in 2026 based on biological sex." The governing body also acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue. “The WTA recognises that this is a sensitive and complex issue and is committed to treating all players with dignity and implementing the policy in a respectful and thoughtful way.” The move follows similar policy changes made by other international sports organisations. In September 2025, World Athletics introduced mandatory one-time genetic sex testing for athletes competing in women's world ranking events. Earlier that year, World Boxing also adopted mandatory SRY gene testing for athletes entering women's competitions. The WTA's updated policy reflects a broader trend among international sporting bodies reviewing eligibility rules for women's competitions while aiming to balance fairness, inclusion and athlete welfare.

The Women's Tennis Association will require all players to undergo one-time genetic sex testing under a new eligibility policy based on biological sex

Women's tennis players to require one-time genetic sex test under new WTA policy

From Coco Gauff to Maria Sharapova, here's a look at the six wealthiest women tennis stars. Also check where star tennis player Serena Williams and other big names stand in the list.

From Coco Gauff to Maria Sharapova: 6 wealthiest women tennis stars, check where Serena Williams stands

Women tennis players who take time out of the game to freeze eggs or embryos will have their ranking protected, the WTA Tour announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;Players ranked from one to 750 in singles or doubles who spend at least 10 consecutive weeks out of competition for a "fertility protection procedure" are eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-i-would-like-to-bring-gold-from-there-for-india-table-tennis-sensation-ankur-bhattacharjee-1749636800893">Exclusive: I would like to bring gold from there for India, says table tennis sensation Ankur Bhattacharjee</a>&nbsp;The ranking can be used to enter up to three tournaments, but the policy does not apply to the premier 1000 events.&nbsp;The special ranking will be based on the 12-week average of a player's WTA ranking from eight weeks prior to the start of their out-of-competition period.&nbsp;Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, told the BBC the rule will reduce the pressure on players to return to the court too quickly.&nbsp;Stephens said she had twice previously used the off-season to freeze her eggs.&nbsp;The 32-year-old said in the WTA statement that she was "incredibly proud of our sport in recognising the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes".&nbsp;"For any woman, the conversation of family life versus a career is nuanced and complex," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The WTA has now created a safe space for players to explore options and to make the best decisions for themselves."&nbsp;The WTA said in a statement that the "Fertility Protection Special Entry Ranking Rule" would enhance the existing package of benefits to help players combine family life with tennis.&nbsp;WTA CEO Portia Archer said, "We understand that professional athletes can face a dilemma between focusing on their career and starting a family, and we are committed to supporting WTA players as they navigate and balance the choices associated with career and family."&nbsp;In March, the WTA and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced the introduction of a maternity fund programme, giving players paid maternity leave for up to 12 months and access to grants for fertility treatments.&nbsp;&nbsp;The PIF is a global partner of the WTA Tour.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Women’s Tennis Association to protect rankings for players who freeze eggs

Women tennis players who take time out of the game to freeze eggs or embryos will have their ranking protected, the WTA Tour announced on Wednesday. Players ranked from one to 750 in singles or doubles who spend at least 10 consecutive weeks out of competition for a "fertility protection procedure" are eligible. Also read | Exclusive: I would like to bring gold from there for India, says table tennis sensation Ankur Bhattacharjee The ranking can be used to enter up to three tournaments, but the policy does not apply to the premier 1000 events. The special ranking will be based on the 12-week average of a player's WTA ranking from eight weeks prior to the start of their out-of-competition period. Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, told the BBC the rule will reduce the pressure on players to return to the court too quickly. Stephens said she had twice previously used the off-season to freeze her eggs. The 32-year-old said in the WTA statement that she was "incredibly proud of our sport in recognising the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes". "For any woman, the conversation of family life versus a career is nuanced and complex," she said. "The WTA has now created a safe space for players to explore options and to make the best decisions for themselves." The WTA said in a statement that the "Fertility Protection Special Entry Ranking Rule" would enhance the existing package of benefits to help players combine family life with tennis. WTA CEO Portia Archer said, "We understand that professional athletes can face a dilemma between focusing on their career and starting a family, and we are committed to supporting WTA players as they navigate and balance the choices associated with career and family." In March, the WTA and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced the introduction of a maternity fund programme, giving players paid maternity leave for up to 12 months and access to grants for fertility treatments. The PIF is a global partner of the WTA Tour. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Players ranked from one to 750 in singles or doubles who spend at least 10 consecutive weeks out of competition for a "fertility protection procedure" are eligible.&nbsp;

Women's Tennis Association (WTA) head Steve Simon has said that individual athletes should not be penalised for "decisions of an authoritarian leadership" amid concerns that players from Russia and Belarus could be blocked from competing in tournaments.

Russian and Belarusian players are allowed to play on the elite ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus was a key staging area.

Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles as a result of what the country calls a "special military operation."

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Several sports have banned individual athletes from Russia and Belarus and Simon said he was unsure what else was in store for tennis players.

"You never know what the future may bring," Simon told the BBC.

"But I can tell you that we have never banned athletes from participating on our tour as the result of political positions their leadership may take."

"So it would take something very significant for that to change, but again we don't know where this is going."

British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said on Tuesday that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian President Vladimir Putin if he is to compete at this year's Wimbledon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-is-an-honour-to-play-alongside-jhulan-goswami-mithali-raj-praises-veteran-pacer-on-taking-250-odi-wickets-462835">It is an honour to play alongside Jhulan Goswami: Mithali Raj praises veteran pacer on taking 250 ODI wickets</a>

Simon said the WTA would be forced to change its position if governments do not allow Russian and Belarusian players to enter countries as the organisation has to follow rules.

"I feel very strongly that these individual athletes should not be the ones that are being penalised by the decisions of an authoritarian leadership that is obviously doing terrible, reprehensible things," Simon said.

"But if that happens... it won't be something we support."

Women's Tennis Association (WTA) head Steve Simon has said that individual athletes should not be penalised for "decisions of an authoritarian leadership" amid concerns that players from Russia and Belarus could be blocked from competing in tournaments.

Women's Tennis Association (WTA) head Steve Simon has said that individual athletes should not be penalised for "decisions of an authoritarian leadership" amid concerns that players from Russia and Belarus could be blocked from competing in tournaments. Russian and Belarusian players are allowed to play on the elite ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus was a key staging area. Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles as a result of what the country calls a "special military operation." ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Defending champion Paula Badosa beats Leylah Fernandez; Iga Swiatek, Simona Halep enter quarters Several sports have banned individual athletes from Russia and Belarus and Simon said he was unsure what else was in store for tennis players. "You never know what the future may bring," Simon told the BBC. "But I can tell you that we have never banned athletes from participating on our tour as the result of political positions their leadership may take." "So it would take something very significant for that to change, but again we don't know where this is going." British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said on Tuesday that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian President Vladimir Putin if he is to compete at this year's Wimbledon. ALSO READ: It is an honour to play alongside Jhulan Goswami: Mithali Raj praises veteran pacer on taking 250 ODI wickets Simon said the WTA would be forced to change its position if governments do not allow Russian and Belarusian players to enter countries as the organisation has to follow rules. "I feel very strongly that these individual athletes should not be the ones that are being penalised by the decisions of an authoritarian leadership that is obviously doing terrible, reprehensible things," Simon said. "But if that happens... it won't be something we support."

Players should not be banned over Ukraine crisis, says WTA head Steve Simon

After more than a decade without a title sponsor, the Women’s Tennis Association confirmed that it has agreed to a multiyear deal with Hologic, a leading global medical device and diagnostics company focused on women’s health.

It is the first major sports sponsorship for Hologic, whose headquarters are in Marlborough, Massachusetts, and it comes at a crucial moment for the WTA, which has suspended all of its tournaments in China and faced significant financial headwinds during the coronavirus pandemic because of tournament cancellations and reduced attendance and revenue at many events.

“This comes at a very, very good time,” WTA President Micky Lawler said. “For us it’s the most important sponsorship of the WTA’s history and probably the biggest in women’s sports.”

Lawler, citing a confidentiality agreement with Hologic, declined to state the precise terms of the deal, but it is significantly larger on an annual basis than the tour’s previous title sponsorship with cellphone manufacturer Sony Ericsson, which ended in 2010. That six-year agreement, signed in 2005, was for $88 million — an average of $14.7 million annually.

“I think we’re all very grateful after the last couple of years, with the challenges with the pandemic and everything going on in the world right now, to be able to have this kind of support from a company that cares so much about women’s health, wellness and equality,” said Danielle Collins, a finalist at this year’s Australian Open.

Lisa Hellmann, a senior vice president for global human resources and corporate communication at Hologic, said the WTA’s strong stance in support of Chinese player Peng Shuai was a factor in sparking Hologic’s interest.

“I would consider it more a catalyst to the conversation than the deciding factor,” Hellmann said in a phone interview.

Peng disappeared from the public eye for more than two weeks in November after publishing a social media post in which she accused Zhang Gaoli, a former vice premier of China, of pressuring her into sex. That post was quickly deleted and online conversation about her and her allegations was censored. The WTA, unable to make contact with Peng, called on Chinese officials to make a “full and transparent” investigation into Peng’s allegations and end censorship on the subject.

When those demands were not met, the WTA suspended all its tournaments in China, which has become one of the financial pillars of the women’s tour with 10 events that accounted for approximately one-third of the WTA’s annual revenue in 2019. The most lucrative and prestigious of those events was the WTA Finals, the tour’s year-end championship in Shenzhen, China, which offered record prize money of $14 million in 2019, including $4.42 million to the winner, Ashleigh Barty.

The WTA has been an outlier in its approach to China. The ATP, which operates the men’s tennis tour, has not suspended its Chinese tournaments, and other professional leagues, including the NBA, have been reticent to confront Chinese authorities directly.

Peng has reappeared in recent weeks and given some controlled interviews, claiming that she deleted the social media post herself and that she had been misunderstood and had not made sexual assault allegations. But the WTA, still lacking direct contact with Peng, has maintained its position.

“We’ve been watching very closely some of the brave and really high-integrity moves that the WTA has made almost by themselves,” Hellmann said. “And that brought to our attention both the potential need they may have for title sponsorship, as well as really wanting to stand with and support the stance they are taking despite really negative impact on their business.”

Hellmann added: “It put their calendar at risk. It put a huge audience at risk, but they stood up for what they believed to be right and stood up for their players and therefore, by extension, the voice of women throughout the world.”

According to Lawler, the contact with Hologic began with a game of golf in December in San Diego, where Hologic has a major manufacturing facility, that involved Stephen MacMillan, Hologic’s chairman, and Kyle Filippelli, the boyfriend of American tennis player CoCo Vandeweghe.

Lawler said MacMillan mentioned the WTA’s “moral stance” on Peng and expressed interest to Filippelli in opening discussions with the WTA. MacMillan was put in contact with Alastair Garland, who is on the WTA’s board of directors, is the vice president at the management company Octagon and is married to Lawler’s daughter Charlotte.

“We had two calls, one before Christmas, one right after,” Lawler said. “And then we went out to San Diego and we met with them, and that’s how it started. It clicked right away.”

Hellmann said Hologic was, above all, interested in a partnership because of the WTA’s “global reach” and because her company’s goals matched up particularly well with the WTA’s.

“We’re committed to improving the lives of women, to improving issues of equity and health, so that sort of fundamental DNA, if you will, is so aligned,” she said. “It made it an easy place to start.”

Hellmann said that, as part of the sponsorship, current and former WTA players would share personal stories that underscore the importance of preventive testing and screening for diseases like breast and cervical cancer. The company also plans to work with the tour to create Hologic WTA Labs, which will be focused on research specific to female athletes.

Collins, who has risen to No. 11 in the rankings after recovering from endometriosis last year, said that partnership resonated with her.

“Having been someone that has dealt firsthand with women’s health issues, I really appreciate the research and them being a medical technology company that’s focused on creating things like mammogram machines and bone density and cervical cancer screening,” she said. “These are things that are so important to women’s health.”

Lawler said Hologic’s name will be featured on the nets at all WTA events, beginning with next week’s BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California. The company’s name will also be used on virtual signs on courts outside the double alleys at WTA 1000 and 500 tournaments.

This is the longest the tour has gone without a title sponsor since its founding in 1973. Virginia Slims, the cigarette maker, was the first sponsor, making use of the slogan “You’ve come a long way baby,” before eventually being phased out because of health concerns. Kraft General Food, Corel, Sanex and Sony Ericsson followed as title sponsors.

“We’re working on a series called ‘You’ve come a long way,’” Lawler said.

She added: “We’ve learned a lot about the disastrous consequences of smoking, but at the time that was also a game changer,” she said of the Virginia Slims sponsorship. “With Hologic, it sort of is a full-circle story.”

Lawler said part of the challenge of securing a title sponsor since Sony Ericsson’s contract ended in 2010 has been finding a company whose brand does not conflict with other tour and individual event sponsors.

“You often find competing brands in the same industry,” she said. “This alignment is perfect, because there is no competition.”

Lawler said the title sponsorship revenue would allow the tour to keep prize money equal with the men at its top-tier premier mandatory events and boost prize money at other tournaments.

Shenzhen has not hosted the WTA Finals since 2019 because of pandemic restrictions, and with the suspension of Chinese tournaments, the tour is again exploring options elsewhere for this year’s event in November. It staged the tournament last year in Guadalajara, Mexico, albeit with much lower prize money of $5 million. Lawler said the tour hoped to have clarity on the finals by the end of March and would consult with Hologic and other sponsors if it does choose a new site.

Hellmann said that China was a “growing market” for Hologic but expressed confidence that sponsoring the WTA would not affect that business.

“In conversations with our international leadership, we do not anticipate there to be problems or conflicts with that,” she said.

After more than a decade without a title sponsor, the Women’s Tennis Association confirmed that it has agreed to a multiyear deal with Hologic, a leading global medical device and diagnostics company focused on women’s health.

After more than a decade without a title sponsor, the Women’s Tennis Association confirmed that it has agreed to a multiyear deal with Hologic, a leading global medical device and diagnostics company focused on women’s health. It is the first major sports sponsorship for Hologic, whose headquarters are in Marlborough, Massachusetts, and it comes at a crucial moment for the WTA, which has suspended all of its tournaments in China and faced significant financial headwinds during the coronavirus pandemic because of tournament cancellations and reduced attendance and revenue at many events. “This comes at a very, very good time,” WTA President Micky Lawler said. “For us it’s the most important sponsorship of the WTA’s history and probably the biggest in women’s sports.” Lawler, citing a confidentiality agreement with Hologic, declined to state the precise terms of the deal, but it is significantly larger on an annual basis than the tour’s previous title sponsorship with cellphone manufacturer Sony Ericsson, which ended in 2010. That six-year agreement, signed in 2005, was for $88 million — an average of $14.7 million annually. “I think we’re all very grateful after the last couple of years, with the challenges with the pandemic and everything going on in the world right now, to be able to have this kind of support from a company that cares so much about women’s health, wellness and equality,” said Danielle Collins, a finalist at this year’s Australian Open. Lisa Hellmann, a senior vice president for global human resources and corporate communication at Hologic, said the WTA’s strong stance in support of Chinese player Peng Shuai was a factor in sparking Hologic’s interest. “I would consider it more a catalyst to the conversation than the deciding factor,” Hellmann said in a phone interview. Peng disappeared from the public eye for more than two weeks in November after publishing a social media post in which she accused Zhang Gaoli, a former vice premier of China, of pressuring her into sex. That post was quickly deleted and online conversation about her and her allegations was censored. The WTA, unable to make contact with Peng, called on Chinese officials to make a “full and transparent” investigation into Peng’s allegations and end censorship on the subject. When those demands were not met, the WTA suspended all its tournaments in China, which has become one of the financial pillars of the women’s tour with 10 events that accounted for approximately one-third of the WTA’s annual revenue in 2019. The most lucrative and prestigious of those events was the WTA Finals, the tour’s year-end championship in Shenzhen, China, which offered record prize money of $14 million in 2019, including $4.42 million to the winner, Ashleigh Barty. The WTA has been an outlier in its approach to China. The ATP, which operates the men’s tennis tour, has not suspended its Chinese tournaments, and other professional leagues, including the NBA, have been reticent to confront Chinese authorities directly. Peng has reappeared in recent weeks and given some controlled interviews, claiming that she deleted the social media post herself and that she had been misunderstood and had not made sexual assault allegations. But the WTA, still lacking direct contact with Peng, has maintained its position. “We’ve been watching very closely some of the brave and really high-integrity moves that the WTA has made almost by themselves,” Hellmann said. “And that brought to our attention both the potential need they may have for title sponsorship, as well as really wanting to stand with and support the stance they are taking despite really negative impact on their business.” Hellmann added: “It put their calendar at risk. It put a huge audience at risk, but they stood up for what they believed to be right and stood up for their players and therefore, by extension, the voice of women throughout the world.” According to Lawler, the contact with Hologic began with a game of golf in December in San Diego, where Hologic has a major manufacturing facility, that involved Stephen MacMillan, Hologic’s chairman, and Kyle Filippelli, the boyfriend of American tennis player CoCo Vandeweghe. Lawler said MacMillan mentioned the WTA’s “moral stance” on Peng and expressed interest to Filippelli in opening discussions with the WTA. MacMillan was put in contact with Alastair Garland, who is on the WTA’s board of directors, is the vice president at the management company Octagon and is married to Lawler’s daughter Charlotte. “We had two calls, one before Christmas, one right after,” Lawler said. “And then we went out to San Diego and we met with them, and that’s how it started. It clicked right away.” Hellmann said Hologic was, above all, interested in a partnership because of the WTA’s “global reach” and because her company’s goals matched up particularly well with the WTA’s. “We’re committed to improving the lives of women, to improving issues of equity and health, so that sort of fundamental DNA, if you will, is so aligned,” she said. “It made it an easy place to start.” Hellmann said that, as part of the sponsorship, current and former WTA players would share personal stories that underscore the importance of preventive testing and screening for diseases like breast and cervical cancer. The company also plans to work with the tour to create Hologic WTA Labs, which will be focused on research specific to female athletes. Collins, who has risen to No. 11 in the rankings after recovering from endometriosis last year, said that partnership resonated with her. “Having been someone that has dealt firsthand with women’s health issues, I really appreciate the research and them being a medical technology company that’s focused on creating things like mammogram machines and bone density and cervical cancer screening,” she said. “These are things that are so important to women’s health.” Lawler said Hologic’s name will be featured on the nets at all WTA events, beginning with next week’s BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California. The company’s name will also be used on virtual signs on courts outside the double alleys at WTA 1000 and 500 tournaments. This is the longest the tour has gone without a title sponsor since its founding in 1973. Virginia Slims, the cigarette maker, was the first sponsor, making use of the slogan “You’ve come a long way baby,” before eventually being phased out because of health concerns. Kraft General Food, Corel, Sanex and Sony Ericsson followed as title sponsors. “We’re working on a series called ‘You’ve come a long way,’” Lawler said. She added: “We’ve learned a lot about the disastrous consequences of smoking, but at the time that was also a game changer,” she said of the Virginia Slims sponsorship. “With Hologic, it sort of is a full-circle story.” Lawler said part of the challenge of securing a title sponsor since Sony Ericsson’s contract ended in 2010 has been finding a company whose brand does not conflict with other tour and individual event sponsors. “You often find competing brands in the same industry,” she said. “This alignment is perfect, because there is no competition.” Lawler said the title sponsorship revenue would allow the tour to keep prize money equal with the men at its top-tier premier mandatory events and boost prize money at other tournaments. Shenzhen has not hosted the WTA Finals since 2019 because of pandemic restrictions, and with the suspension of Chinese tournaments, the tour is again exploring options elsewhere for this year’s event in November. It staged the tournament last year in Guadalajara, Mexico, albeit with much lower prize money of $5 million. Lawler said the tour hoped to have clarity on the finals by the end of March and would consult with Hologic and other sponsors if it does choose a new site. Hellmann said that China was a “growing market” for Hologic but expressed confidence that sponsoring the WTA would not affect that business. “In conversations with our international leadership, we do not anticipate there to be problems or conflicts with that,” she said.

Strong stance on China and Peng Shuai helps land WTA a new title sponsor

ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi urged for a line of open and direct communication between Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai and the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) in order to establish a clearer picture of her situation.

ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi urged for a line of open and direct communication between Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai and the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) in order to establish a clearer picture of her situation. WTA has suspended all tournaments in China over concerns related to the safety and well-being of the tennis star. Soon after that, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Thursday (December 2) that it had held a second video conference call with the Chinese tennis player, who remained in the global headlines last month when she went 'missing' after she alleged that a powerful Chinese politician sexually assaulted her. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country In a statement, ATP chairman Gaudenzi wrote: "The situation involving Peng Shuai continues to raise serious concerns within and beyond our sport. The response to those concerns has so far fallen short. We again urge for a line of open direct communication between the player and the WTA in order to establish a clearer picture of her situation." The statement added: "We know that sport can have a positive influence on society and generally believe that having a global presence gives us the best chance of creating opportunity and making an impact. We will continue to consult with our members and monitor any developments as this issue evolves." Watch | Gravitas: #MeToo: China punished for protecting a predator The International Tennis Federation (ITF), meanwhile, said they shared the concerns over Peng's well-being. "Peng's accusations must be dealt with," the ITF said in a statement on Thursday.m What IOC said? In a statement issued by IOC on the official social media handle, they informed that Shuai's safety was "reconfirmed" in the second video call. "Our human and person-centred approach means that we continue to be concerned about her personal situation and will continue to support her," the statement read. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai sexual assault row: WTA announces immediate suspension of all tournaments in China "There are different ways to achieve her well-being and safety. We have taken a very human and person-centred approach to her situation," IOC stated, adding that the committee is addressing these concerns directly with Chinese sports organisations. "We are using “quiet diplomacy” which, given the circumstances and based on the experience of governments and other organisations, is indicated to be the most promising way to proceed effectively in such humanitarian matters," the statement added. ×

ATP urges for 'communication' between Peng Shuai and WTA after suspension of tennis tournaments in China

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Thursday (December 2) that it had held a second video conference call with Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai. The announcement came after the women's tennis governing body (WTA) suspended all tournaments in Beijing over concerns related to the safety and well-being of the tennis star.&nbsp;

IOC stated that they have offered Shuai wide-ranging support and will also stay in regular touch with her. IOC&nbsp;media further informed that they have already agreed on a personal meeting with the former doubles world number one in January.

In a statement issued by IOC on the official social media handle, they informed that Shuai's safety was "reconfirmed" in the second video call. "Our human and person-centred approach means that we continue to be concerned about her personal situation and will continue to support her," the statement read.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peng-shuai-row-china-hits-back-at-wta-for-politicising-sport-after-it-suspends-all-tournaments-in-country-433494">Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country</a>

"There are different ways to achieve her well-being and safety. We have taken a very human and person-centred approach to her situation," IOC stated, adding that the committee is addressing these concerns directly with Chinese sports organisations.&nbsp;

"We are using “quiet diplomacy” which, given the circumstances and based on the experience of governments and other organisations, is indicated to be the most promising way to proceed effectively in such humanitarian matters," the statement added.&nbsp;

Last month, Shuai remained in the headlines globally when she went 'missing' after she alleged that a powerful Chinese politician sexually assaulted her. In a social media post, Shuai accused a former Chinese vice premier of forcing her into sex several years ago, she also said that he coerced her into sex and they later had an on-off consensual relationship.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peng-shuai-sexual-assault-row-wta-announces-immediate-suspension-of-all-tournaments-in-china-433406">Peng Shuai sexual assault row: WTA announces immediate suspension of all tournaments in China</a>

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IOC Statement on the situation of Peng Shuai<a href="https://t.co/7wDhc0w33f">https://t.co/7wDhc0w33f</a>
— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/iocmedia/status/1466340282891395077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shuai's case became a matter of global concern when top tennis stars such as Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, Novak Djokovic, etc questioned her well-being and whereabouts. However, IOC had intervened and held a video call with the player on November 21 to assure the world that Peng Shuai is safe.&nbsp;

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Thursday (December 2) that it had held a second video conference call with Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Thursday (December 2) that it had held a second video conference call with Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai. The announcement came after the women's tennis governing body (WTA) suspended all tournaments in Beijing over concerns related to the safety and well-being of the tennis star. IOC stated that they have offered Shuai wide-ranging support and will also stay in regular touch with her. IOC media further informed that they have already agreed on a personal meeting with the former doubles world number one in January. In a statement issued by IOC on the official social media handle, they informed that Shuai's safety was "reconfirmed" in the second video call. "Our human and person-centred approach means that we continue to be concerned about her personal situation and will continue to support her," the statement read. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country "There are different ways to achieve her well-being and safety. We have taken a very human and person-centred approach to her situation," IOC stated, adding that the committee is addressing these concerns directly with Chinese sports organisations. "We are using “quiet diplomacy” which, given the circumstances and based on the experience of governments and other organisations, is indicated to be the most promising way to proceed effectively in such humanitarian matters," the statement added. Last month, Shuai remained in the headlines globally when she went 'missing' after she alleged that a powerful Chinese politician sexually assaulted her. In a social media post, Shuai accused a former Chinese vice premier of forcing her into sex several years ago, she also said that he coerced her into sex and they later had an on-off consensual relationship. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai sexual assault row: WTA announces immediate suspension of all tournaments in China IOC Statement on the situation of Peng Shuaihttps://t.co/7wDhc0w33f — IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) December 2, 2021 × Shuai's case became a matter of global concern when top tennis stars such as Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, Novak Djokovic, etc questioned her well-being and whereabouts. However, IOC had intervened and held a video call with the player on November 21 to assure the world that Peng Shuai is safe. ×

IOC holds second video call with Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai, says using 'quiet diplomacy'

Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai claimed that a powerful politician sexually assaulted her. In a social media post, Shuai accused a former Chinese vice premier of forcing her into sex several years ago, she also said that he coerced her into sex and they later had an on-off consensual relationship.&nbsp;

In the era of #MeToo, if allegations are against politicians, celebrities or popular personalities, then it gets global coverage and a similar thing happened in Peng Shuai's case as well. Her claims were against Zhang Gaoli, who became a member of the Politburo Standing Committee - China's top decision-making body. 
&nbsp; 
However, the tennis player went 'missing' as she was not heard from or seen publicly for days after making the allegations. Her social media post (on Weibo) was deleted within hours the topic remains blocked from direct online discussion.&nbsp;

But it got highlighted when globally when the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) called on the Chinese government to investigate allegations of sexual assault made by the player and also urged the player to make a public appearance.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/peng-shuai-world-seeks-answers-as-chinese-tennis-player-goes-missing-heres-is-what-we-know-so-far-430863">Peng Shuai: World seeks answers as Chinese tennis player goes 'missing'; Here's is what we know so far</a>

The issue was escalated when top tennis players raised concerns about the whereabouts of Shuai. From Naomi Osaka to Serena Williams to Novak Djokovic, players asked that "Where is Peng Shuai?" and urged the tennis world to unite.&nbsp;

On one side, the women's tennis governing body kept pressing Chinese authorities over the whereabouts of Shuai and kept raising the issue on a global platform.&nbsp;

On the other side, Chinese state media journalists attempted to ensure the world that Peng Shuai is "safe". Firstly, they released a letter perturbed from the player. After that photos emerged and then a video.&nbsp;

However, WTA wasn't convinced that the player is actually safe as it said that the photographs and video footage of the Chinese tennis star do not address the association's concerns about her.&nbsp;

Then, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach interacted virtually in a 30-minute long video call with Shuai and the details were published on the website.&nbsp;

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WTA re-iterated that Shuai's video call with the IOC president did not address or alleviate concerns about her well-being. "It was good to see Peng Shuai in recent videos, but they don't alleviate or address the WTA's concern about her well-being and ability to communicate without censorship or coercion," a WTA spokeswoman said in an e-mail.

And on being asked about the call with the IOC, the spokeswoman said: "This video does not change our call for a full, fair and transparent investigation, without censorship, into her allegation of sexual assault, which is the issue that gave rise to our initial concern."

But if IOC's efforts are not enough to make the world believe that Peng Shuai is safe, then what's next?

The entire saga emerged as a curious case of a battle between China and the rest of the world that could do nothing more than just raise concerns and question the authorities. Temporary disappearances from public life following a scrape with authority is not something that is unheard of in China. This has happened before — Jack Ma, Fan Bingbing are some examples.&nbsp;

Peng Shuai's case highlights Beijing's censorship machine in a tightly controlled cyberspace and&nbsp;the extreme secrecy surrounding the country's ruling elite.

Is Peng Shuai is really safe?&nbsp;

Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai claimed that a powerful politician sexually assaulted her. In a social media post, Shuai accused a former Chinese vice premier of forcing her into sex several years ago, she also said that he coerced her into sex and they later had an on-off consensual relationship.

Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai claimed that a powerful politician sexually assaulted her. In a social media post, Shuai accused a former Chinese vice premier of forcing her into sex several years ago, she also said that he coerced her into sex and they later had an on-off consensual relationship. In the era of #MeToo, if allegations are against politicians, celebrities or popular personalities, then it gets global coverage and a similar thing happened in Peng Shuai's case as well. Her claims were against Zhang Gaoli, who became a member of the Politburo Standing Committee - China's top decision-making body. However, the tennis player went 'missing' as she was not heard from or seen publicly for days after making the allegations. Her social media post (on Weibo) was deleted within hours the topic remains blocked from direct online discussion. But it got highlighted when globally when the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) called on the Chinese government to investigate allegations of sexual assault made by the player and also urged the player to make a public appearance. IN PICS | Peng Shuai: World seeks answers as Chinese tennis player goes 'missing'; Here's is what we know so far The issue was escalated when top tennis players raised concerns about the whereabouts of Shuai. From Naomi Osaka to Serena Williams to Novak Djokovic, players asked that "Where is Peng Shuai?" and urged the tennis world to unite. On one side, the women's tennis governing body kept pressing Chinese authorities over the whereabouts of Shuai and kept raising the issue on a global platform. On the other side, Chinese state media journalists attempted to ensure the world that Peng Shuai is "safe". Firstly, they released a letter perturbed from the player. After that photos emerged and then a video. However, WTA wasn't convinced that the player is actually safe as it said that the photographs and video footage of the Chinese tennis star do not address the association's concerns about her. Then, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach interacted virtually in a 30-minute long video call with Shuai and the details were published on the website. × WTA re-iterated that Shuai's video call with the IOC president did not address or alleviate concerns about her well-being. "It was good to see Peng Shuai in recent videos, but they don't alleviate or address the WTA's concern about her well-being and ability to communicate without censorship or coercion," a WTA spokeswoman said in an e-mail. And on being asked about the call with the IOC, the spokeswoman said: "This video does not change our call for a full, fair and transparent investigation, without censorship, into her allegation of sexual assault, which is the issue that gave rise to our initial concern." But if IOC's efforts are not enough to make the world believe that Peng Shuai is safe, then what's next? The entire saga emerged as a curious case of a battle between China and the rest of the world that could do nothing more than just raise concerns and question the authorities. Temporary disappearances from public life following a scrape with authority is not something that is unheard of in China. This has happened before — Jack Ma, Fan Bingbing are some examples. Peng Shuai's case highlights Beijing's censorship machine in a tightly controlled cyberspace and the extreme secrecy surrounding the country's ruling elite. Is Peng Shuai is really safe?

The curious case of China vs rest of world over a 'missing' tennis star

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

Halep who appeared in the Miami Open semi-final last week displaced Czech's Petra Kvitova after the latter lost to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in the final.

The Romanian with 5782 points has reduced the lead with number one Osaka, who has retained 6021 points, to attain number two spot.

Petra Kvitova (5645), Karolina Pliskova (5580) of Czech Republic and Germany's Angelique Kerber (5165), Dutch's Kiki Bertens (5050), Ukraine's Elina Svitolina (5020), Sloane Stephens of America (4287), Australia's Ashleigh Barty (4275) and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka (3595) completed the top 10.

Bertens at number six obtained a new career-high ranking. She is now just one spot away to earn the highest ever ranking achieved by a Dutchwoman -- Betty Stove's world number five peak in 1977.&nbsp;

Barty at number nine has become the 10th player from her country to achieve the feat following her brilliant victory at the Miami Open.

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings. Halep who appeared in the Miami Open semi-final last week displaced Czech's Petra Kvitova after the latter lost to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in the final. The Romanian with 5782 points has reduced the lead with number one Osaka, who has retained 6021 points, to attain number two spot. Petra Kvitova (5645), Karolina Pliskova (5580) of Czech Republic and Germany's Angelique Kerber (5165), Dutch's Kiki Bertens (5050), Ukraine's Elina Svitolina (5020), Sloane Stephens of America (4287), Australia's Ashleigh Barty (4275) and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka (3595) completed the top 10. Bertens at number six obtained a new career-high ranking. She is now just one spot away to earn the highest ever ranking achieved by a Dutchwoman -- Betty Stove's world number five peak in 1977. Barty at number nine has become the 10th player from her country to achieve the feat following her brilliant victory at the Miami Open.

WTA rankings: Simona Halep closes on world no.1 Naomi Osaka

Angelique Kerber, a German professional tennis player, is all set to compete in the WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai.&nbsp;

The former world number 1 will be facing Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia in the Zhuhai.&nbsp;

Kerber rose to fame after reaching the semi-finals of 2011 US Open when she was ranked 92 player in the world.

She was escalated to the top of the rankings on 12 September 2016, becoming the twenty-second and oldest player to achieve the number one ranking for the first time.

She had earned 10 Singles titles across all surfaces on the WTA tour.

She had also won an Olympic silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics.

The WTA Elite Trophy is a round-robin tournament for the top players who could not qualify for the WTA finals.&nbsp;

The tournament includes 12 players which are divided into four groups of three members each. The group winners reach the semi-finals.&nbsp;

Kerber will be playing along with Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Ashleigh Barty.&nbsp;

She made her professional debut in 2003.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The former world number 1 will be facing Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia in the Zhuhai

Angelique Kerber, a German professional tennis player, is all set to compete in the WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai. The former world number 1 will be facing Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia in the Zhuhai. Kerber rose to fame after reaching the semi-finals of 2011 US Open when she was ranked 92 player in the world. She was escalated to the top of the rankings on 12 September 2016, becoming the twenty-second and oldest player to achieve the number one ranking for the first time. She had earned 10 Singles titles across all surfaces on the WTA tour. She had also won an Olympic silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. The WTA Elite Trophy is a round-robin tournament for the top players who could not qualify for the WTA finals. The tournament includes 12 players which are divided into four groups of three members each. The group winners reach the semi-finals. Kerber will be playing along with Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Ashleigh Barty. She made her professional debut in 2003.

WTA Elite Trophy: Angelique Kerber to face Russian Pavlyuchenkova

Serena Williams will miss next week&#39;s Women&#39;s Tennis Association event in Montreal after the world number one withdrew with a shoulder injury, tournament organisers announced today. 
 
&quot;Due to inflammation in my shoulder, I unfortunately must withdraw from the (tournament). I was looking forward to competing in Montreal and I look forward to returning soon,&quot; Williams said in a statement. 
 
Williams, a three-time winner of the event that rotates between Montreal and Toronto each year, equaled Steffi Graf&#39;s Open era record of 22 Grand Slam titles with her victory at Wimbledon earlier this month. 
 
&quot;Of course, we are disappointed that Serena will not play in the tournament this year,&quot; said tournament director Eugenie Lapierre. 
 
&quot;Because this is an Olympic year, the players have very full schedules. Sometimes your body needs rest. We hope that Serena will recover quickly and wish her much success for the rest of the season.&quot; 
 
Williams, who turns 35 in September, is aiming to defend her Olympic singles crown in Rio next month and will also team up with sister Venus in search of a fourth gold medal in the doubles. 
 
(AFP)

Williams equaled Steffi Graf's Open era record of 22 Grand Slam titles with her victory at Wimbledon earlier this month

Serena Williams will miss next week's Women's Tennis Association event in Montreal after the world number one withdrew with a shoulder injury, tournament organisers announced today. "Due to inflammation in my shoulder, I unfortunately must withdraw from the (tournament). I was looking forward to competing in Montreal and I look forward to returning soon," Williams said in a statement. Williams, a three-time winner of the event that rotates between Montreal and Toronto each year, equaled Steffi Graf's Open era record of 22 Grand Slam titles with her victory at Wimbledon earlier this month. "Of course, we are disappointed that Serena will not play in the tournament this year," said tournament director Eugenie Lapierre. "Because this is an Olympic year, the players have very full schedules. Sometimes your body needs rest. We hope that Serena will recover quickly and wish her much success for the rest of the season." Williams, who turns 35 in September, is aiming to defend her Olympic singles crown in Rio next month and will also team up with sister Venus in search of a fourth gold medal in the doubles. (AFP)

Serena Williams withdraws out of Montreal due to shoulder injury