Lia Thomas

Swimming News: Lia Thomas Battles World Aquatics

Thomas Files Lawsuit Against World Governing Body

Court of Arbitration Rejects Thomas' Challenge

Transgender swimmer Lia Thomas has filed a lawsuit against FINA, the international governing body for swimming, after it banned her from competing in women's events at the 2023 World Championships. The ban stems from FINA's new policy, which requires transgender athletes to have undergone surgery to reassign their sex and reduce their testosterone levels to compete in women's events.

Thomas, who won the NCAA women's 500-yard freestyle championship in 2022, became the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I national championship. Her victory sparked a national debate about the role of transgender athletes in sports.

In a statement, Thomas said that she is "deeply disappointed" by FINA's decision. "I have always competed fairly and in accordance with the rules," she said. "I believe that I should be allowed to compete in the sport I love without being discriminated against because of who I am."

FINA's decision has drawn criticism from some LGBTQ+ advocates and athletes. Critics argue that the ban is discriminatory and that it unfairly targets transgender athletes. Supporters of the ban argue that it is necessary to protect the integrity of women's sports.