Sabalenka Calls Transgender Inclusion in Women’s Tennis ‘Unfair’ in Pre-Exhibition Interview

Overview

• World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka said it is unfair for women to face transgender athletes, arguing they retain a competitive advantage.
• The comments were made during an interview promoting a December 28 ‘Battle of the Sexes’ exhibition against Nick Kyrgios in Dubai.
• Sabalenka acknowledged men’s physical strength under standard conditions but said a 9% smaller court for the exhibition could give her a chance.
• Reporting reiterated that WTA policy permits transgender women to compete if they meet medical requirements, including maintaining testosterone below 2.5 nmol/L for two years and filing a gender identity declaration.
• Outlets noted no transgender players currently compete at the elite women’s level; Kyrgios said he agreed with Sabalenka, and the WTA did not immediately comment.