LTA to ban transgender women from playing in most domestic female competitions

Transgender women will be prohibited from competing in women’s categories in most domestic tennis competitions in Great Britain starting January 25, 2025. Under the current rules set by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), players have the freedom to self-identify their gender. However, with the upcoming changes, trans women and non-binary individuals assigned male at birth will exclusively compete in male categories within defined competitions.

These specified competitions include leagues and tournaments that involve participants from various clubs and venues, encompassing events ranging from national championships down to local contests. On the other hand, intra-venue events, like club championships and social tournaments, have been classified as non-specified. This means individual venues will establish their own policies regarding these tournaments.

It is important to note that the LTA’s authority does not extend to international competitions, such as Wimbledon or events organized by ATP, WTA, and the International Tennis Federation. Therefore, this policy will specifically govern domestic tennis scenarios.

At present, transgender women can compete in the female category in WTA and ITF events as long as they adhere to regulations concerning testosterone levels. The LTA has emphasized its commitment to making tennis accessible to all members of society, but they have shifted their policy due to concerns about physiological advantages typically held by males, such as longer limbs and enhanced cardiovascular capacity.

The association stated, “It is clear that tennis and padel are gender-affected sports – the average man has an advantage when playing against the average woman.” Following a comprehensive review conducted by the Sports Councils Equality Group, it was concluded that these advantages are likely to persist among trans women, potentially leading to unfair competition.

As part of their new policy, the LTA aims to encourage local venues to be as inclusive as possible for trans and non-binary individuals, fostering opportunities to compete in an amiable environment. They have also assured that their Local Tennis Leagues, primarily held in parks, will maintain inclusivity.

This recent policy change emerged from an 18-month consultation process that involved discussions with affected communities and other sporting entities. The LTA has committed to ongoing evaluations of the policy, ensuring that it remains responsive to changing research, data, and guidance from relevant authorities.