Court Ruling Bars Lia Thomas from Competing in Women’s Olympic Events
Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer, has lost her legal bid to compete in women's events at the Olympic Games. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) concluded that Thomas, who sought to overturn a ban against transgender women who have completed their transition post-age 12, was not entitled to engage in women's competitions under World Aquatics (WA) rules. This decision prevents her from participating in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
The ruling has received widespread support on social media. Notably, former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines, who competed against Thomas in 2022, has hailed the decision as a “victory for women and girls everywhere." Thomas first gained prominence after becoming the first transgender athlete to win an NCAA college title in 2022, which led to heightened scrutiny and changes in WA regulations.
Kaylee McKeown Narrowly Misses 200m Backstroke World Record at Olympic Trials
Australian swimmer Kaylee McKeown came within 0.16 seconds of her 200m backstroke world record during Australia's Olympic swimming trials in Brisbane on Thursday. McKeown, the reigning Olympic champion in the 100m and 200m backstroke, clocked a time of 2:03.30. Despite the near-miss, McKeown expressed satisfaction with her performance, highlighting that few swimmers achieve such times.
Similarly, Kyle Chalmers secured his spot for a third Olympics by winning the men's 100m freestyle in 47.75 seconds. McKeown and Chalmers are expected to lead Australia’s swimming contingent in the Paris Olympics, scheduled to begin on July 26, 2024.
Ranjuo Tomblin Wins Historic Gold at European Aquatics Championships
Ranjuo Tomblin has made history by becoming the first British male to win a European artistic swimming title. The 18-year-old secured gold in the men’s solo event at the European Aquatics Championships in Belgrade, Serbia. This marks his third medal of the championships, having previously won bronze in mixed duet free and silver in men's solo technical events. Tomblin’s victory contributes to Britain’s overall tally of four medals so far at the event.