WPBSA permits only biological females in women’s snooker competitions
The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) has announced that only those born biologically female will be allowed to compete in women’s competitions, reports BritPanorama.
This regulation follows a year-long review and comes after the Supreme Court ruled that biological sex should define a woman in legal terms. The governing body stated that comprehensive legal guidance was sought prior to this decision, which aligns with a landmark court ruling earlier in April 2025 and a case involving transgender player Harriet Haynes and the English Blackball Federation last August.
The announcement, made public via the WPBSA’s website, brings clarity following concerns raised during the review process. Twelve-time world champion Reanne Evans expressed frustration over what she described as inadequate communication from the governing body during this period. She noted that many female players felt left in the dark, saying, “So women snooker players [of all levels] and their teams have been asking if a decision has been made with no reply.”
Pool player Lynne Pinches, who previously opted out of a competition against Haynes, welcomed the new regulations but criticized the lengthy wait for a conclusion. “It has taken a year & they haven’t announced it but I’m absolutely over the moon,” she commented.
The governing body confirmed in its statement that snooker is now recognized as a “gender-affected activity” under Section 195 of the Equality Act 2010, which restricts participation in women’s events to biological females. The WPBSA emphasized that its policy would be reviewed immediately should future research or guidance produce new findings.
This policy change aligns with a recent decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stipulating that only biological females will compete in women’s events starting from the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The IOC has introduced a single cheek swab test to establish eligibility, thereby excluding post-puberty males and athletes with differences in sex development from the female category.
As international sports federations are expected to follow suit, Haynes, who saw her legal challenge against the English Blackball Pool Federation dismissed in August, has been granted permission to appeal her case.
In an arena where the lines between sport and identity are increasingly complicated, this decision underlines the enduring challenge of creating inclusive policies while respecting competitive fairness. With significant implications for the future of women’s snooker, the atmosphere remains charged as athletes and organizations adapt to this evolving landscape.
