Lia Thomas, the first transgender woman to participate in women’s swimming at the NCAA Division I level, has been barred from women’s sports, authorities said in a major and contentious decision.
Following an examination of the rules and eligibility requirements, authorities declared that “she doesn’t qualify” under the existing restrictions.
A contentious discussion over transgender athletes and their involvement in competitive sports has been sparked by the ruling.
Citing worries about potential physiological benefits from male puberty, proponents of the decision contend that it is essential to maintain equity in women’s sports.
They contend that in order to provide all athletes equal chances, the integrity of women’s contests must be maintained.
