Aryna Sabalenka defends genetic sex testing stance after Wimbledon fallout

Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) in the Indian Wells final to win her first title at the tournament. Sabalenka is the current world No 1 on the WTA Tour and has won four Grand Slam singles titles, including two Australian Open and two US Open championships. She has also claimed six doubles titles, reaching world No 1 in that discipline. Her recent stance on the WTA’s new genetic sex testing policy, support for a one-time biological test, and comments on transgender athletes have drawn public attention ahead of the US Open, where she faces scrutiny over her Nike outfit and maintains her top ranking.

Sabalenka backs WTA's genetic sex testing policy

Aryna Sabalenka has publicly backed the WTA's new genetic sex testing policy, supporting a one‑time biological test and endorsing fellow players’ views on transgender athletes, drawing attention to the ongoing debate. The world No 1 said she believes such a test would bring clarity for the sport and praised Sophie Cunningham’s stance on the issue. Her comments come amid wider scrutiny of the policy following recent tournaments, including her recent Indian Wells victory. Sabalenka’s remarks have reignited discussion among fans and officials about how the tour should handle eligibility and fairness, highlighting the complexity of the subject. According to reports, her position reflects a broader conversation within the sport.

Sabalenka retains world No 1 ranking after Indian Wells victory

Sabalenka retained world No 1 after defeating Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) in the Indian Wells final, a match that lasted more than two and a half hours. The win restored her top ranking on the WTA Tour. Sabalenka has said she supports the WTA’s new genetic sex testing policy and would keep wearing her basketball‑inspired outfit for the US Open despite public criticism. She has also backed Sophie Cunningham’s stance on transgender athletes. Her Indian Wells victory adds to a season that includes two Australian Open singles titles, two US Open singles titles and a return to the top of the rankings.

Outfit controversy ahead of US Open

Ahead of the US Open, Sabalenka posted images of a basketball‑style Nike kit, sparking a wave of criticism online. The design, featuring bold graphics and a short length, was called “unusual” and “inappropriate” by some commentators. Sabalenka responded on social media, saying she is aware of the backlash but will continue to wear the outfit throughout the tournament. She framed the choice as personal expression rather than a statement, emphasizing that performance, not attire, remains her priority for the upcoming hard‑court swing.

Sabalenka's recent results and titles

Sabalenka captured her first Indian Wells title by defeating Elena Rybakina 3‑6, 6‑3, 7‑6 (8‑6) in a match lasting over two and a half hours. The WTA No 1 also secured her fourth Grand Slam singles championship earlier in the season, adding two Australian Open crowns and two US Open victories to her tally of 24 career singles titles.

Sabalenka captured her first Indian Wells title by defeating Elena Rybakina 3‑6, 6‑3, 7‑6 (8‑6) in a match lasting over two and a half hours. The WTA No 1 also secured her fourth Grand Slam singles championship earlier in the season, adding two Australian Open crowns and two US Open victories to her tally of 24 career singles titles. She had previously reached the fourth round of the WTA Toronto Masters by beating China's Zhang Shuai 6‑3, 6‑4. Ahead of the Canadian Open, Sabalenka publicly backed the WTA's genetic sex testing policy and supported Sophie Cunningham's stance on transgender athletes. She also shared her new Nike basketball‑inspired outfit on social media, drawing criticism but saying she would keep wearing it. Her victory at Indian Wells extended her winning streak and reinforced her position as world No 1.

Frequently asked questions