In an exclusive interview with    Sports Illustrated  , Lia Thomas, the 22-year-old University of Pennsylvania swimmer who made headlines as the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I championship in a women’s sport , is speaking out against critics who question her right to compete in women’s athletics. Addressing the ongoing debate over transgender athletes in sports, Thomas firmly stated, “I’m not a man. I’m a woman, so I belong on the women’s team.”

Thomas, who became the focus of national conversations following her dominant performances in the pool, particularly at the NCAA Championships, has faced significant scrutiny over her eligibility to compete in women’s sports after transitioning. Critics have argued that her participation gives her an unfair advantage, while others support her inclusion, stressing the importance of respecting her gender identity. For Thomas, this matter is personal and she is determined to stand her ground, demanding the same respect that all other athletes receive.

A journey of self-discovery and transition

Thomas’ journey to becoming a transgender woman in a sport where gender divisions are strictly enforced has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. Originally from Texas, Thomas began questioning her gender identity during her time at Westlake High School in Austin. She felt “disconnected” from her body and later came out to family and friends, eventually deciding to transition during her college years at Penn.

In her interview  with Sports Illustrated   , Thomas opened up about her struggles with gender dysphoria, a condition that exacerbated her depression during her sophomore year at Penn. “I was really depressed,” she admitted, recalling how her emotional state led her to skip classes and spend less time at the pool. It wasn’t until she began hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in May 2019 that Thomas began to feel a sense of relief and her depression gradually eased. “I felt a lot better and healthier pretty quickly,” she said, describing how the treatment helped her connect with her authentic self.

While transitioning was a deeply personal decision, it came with significant consequences, both physically and emotionally. Thomas knew that participating in women’s sports, especially after competing with men during her junior year, would spark intense debate. However, she decided to continue pursuing her passion for swimming, knowing that being true to herself was paramount.

The Road to NCAA Competition and Success

Thomas’ decision to compete as a woman was not made lightly, especially given the controversy that followed her performances. After taking a year off to maintain her NCAA eligibility, Thomas returned to competition in 2021. Her breakthrough moment came when she won multiple titles at the Ivy League Championships, including setting new pool records. She continued her strong performances at the 2022 NCAA Championships, where she emerged victorious in the 500-meter freestyle.

“I’ve been reinvigorated,” Thomas said, reflecting on her return to the sport. “I’ve been swimming for 17 years, but [only] for a small portion of that time have I felt fully engaged.” Thomas believes her authenticity has allowed her to truly reconnect with the sport she loves. “After coming out and being myself, I could really start to see a future,” she added. “Before I came out, I couldn’t visualize a future.”

While many have celebrated Thomas’ achievements, not everyone has been supportive. A group of 16 female athletes on the Penn women’s team publicly stated that Thomas should be banned from competition, claiming that her prior experience swimming on the men’s team gave her an unfair advantage over cisgender women. Despite these criticisms, Thomas has continued to comply with NCAA guidelines, including taking testosterone suppression treatment for over a year, which has allowed her to compete on the women’s side.

The debate on equity versus inclusion

Thomas’ case has become symbolic of the broader national debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports. Those in favor of stricter regulation of transgender participation argue that biological differences between transgender women and cisgender women, particularly in strength and endurance, can create an inherent advantage that undermines fair competition. On the other hand, those advocating for transgender rights highlight the importance of allowing transgender athletes to compete in accordance with their gender identity, citing the mental health and emotional well-being benefits that come with participating in sports.

As a result, the question of equity versus inclusion has become one of the most contentious issues in sports politics today. However, Thomas believes her participation is entirely justified. “I’m a woman, so I belong on the women’s team,” she said. “Trans people deserve the same respect as all other athletes.” Her words reflect her deep conviction that she is being true to herself and following the rules set for transgender athletes by the NCAA and the Olympics.

A message for transgender athletes

Despite the challenges she has faced, Thomas remains hopeful and is determined to be a role model for other transgender athletes. “I just want to show trans kids and younger trans athletes that they are not alone,” she said. “They don’t have to choose between who they are and the sport that they love.” Her desire to be an inspiration to others is a driving force behind her decision to continue competing at the highest level.

Looking ahead, Thomas has set her sights on representing Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Before then, she will compete at the NCAA Division I Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships, where she is favored to win the 200- and 500-yard freestyle events. “I want to swim and compete as who I am,” Thomas said confidently, underscoring her commitment to pursuing her athletic dreams on her own terms.

Conclusion

Lia Thomas’ journey to becoming a trailblazer in the world of sports has been fraught with controversy, but it is also a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of equity and inclusion. While the debate over transgender athletes in sport continues, Thomas remains steadfast in her belief that she deserves to compete as a woman, just like any other athlete. Her story not only highlights the challenges transgender people face in the world of competitive sports, but also serves as a reminder of the importance of respect, understanding, and inclusion for all athletes, regardless of their gender identity.