In a bombshell announcement, World Aquatics has outlined three unprecedented conditions for transgender swimmer Lia Thomas to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, igniting a firestorm of debate. The most shocking requirement? Thomas must compete in men’s events, not women’s, despite her gender identity as a woman. This decision has left the swimming community divided, with reactions ranging from support to outrage, and Thomas herself reportedly stunned.

The conditions, revealed on September 3, 2025, include competing in the men’s category, adhering to strict testosterone suppression protocols for three years prior, and undergoing regular physiological assessments to ensure “competitive fairness.” World Aquatics claims these measures balance inclusion with fairness, citing Thomas’s prior dominance in women’s events as a point of contention. Thomas, who made history as the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I title in 2022, has faced ongoing scrutiny over her participation in women’s swimming.

Fellow athletes have voiced strong opinions. Some, like Olympic medalist Katie Ledecky, argue the ruling is unfair, stating, “Lia identifies as a woman, and her physiological profile aligns with female standards post-transition. Forcing her to compete with men disregards her identity and could disadvantage her.” Others, including anonymous male swimmers, claim allowing Thomas in women’s events gives her an edge due to pre-transition physical advantages, despite her compliance with hormone regulations.

The decision has sparked a broader debate about transgender inclusion in sports. Critics argue it undermines Thomas’s rights, while supporters of the ruling emphasize protecting the integrity of women’s competitions. Thomas has yet to comment publicly, but sources close to her say she’s “heartbroken yet determined” to fight for her place.