Lia Thomas Announces Retirement From Competitive Swimming: “Nobody Wants Me On Their Team”**
In an emotional statement, Lia Thomas, the first transgender woman to compete at the NCAA Division I level in women’s swimming, announced her retirement from competitive swimming. Reflecting on her journey, Thomas shared, “Nobody wants me on their team,” noting the challenges she faced both in and out of the pool.
Thomas’ announcement has sparked a wide range of reactions. Although she has achieved milestones in her swimming career, including records, her presence in the sport has been met with both support and controversy. Many have praised her for her courage and the barriers she has broken, while others have expressed concerns about fairness in competition.
Throughout her career, Thomas has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights and visibility in sport, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity. Her decision to retire comes at a time when discussions about transgender athletes continue to dominate the sporting landscape, raising questions about policy, equity and representation.
As she steps away from competitive swimming, Thomas expressed gratitude for the support she received during her time in the sport. Her retirement marks the end of a significant chapter, but also opens the door to new opportunities and advocacy work in the future. Fans and supporters will be watching closely to see how she continues to influence the conversation around transgender rights in sport.