Paula Scanlan, a former swimmer, expressed her approval of the recent ruling that prohibits her ex-teammate, Lia Thomas, from competing in the Olympic Games. Thomas, a transgender athlete, lost a legal battle to overturn the regulations set by World Aquatics (WA) that bar individuals who have experienced any part of male puberty from participating in female categories. The Court of Arbitration for Sport dismissed Thomas’s appeal due to her ineligibility to compete in WA competitions.
Lia Thomas became the first transgender athlete to win the women's NCAA college swimming title in March 2022. However, her eligibility was later challenged, leading to the rule changes by WA. An "open" category for transgender athletes was created instead.
Following the verdict, Scanlan took to Twitter to demand an apology, citing discomfort from sharing locker room facilities with Thomas. Thomas, who had previously competed in men's swimming events until beginning hormone therapy in 2019, described the decision as "deeply disappointing" and sees it as discriminatory against transgender athletes.
Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD President, supported Thomas, stating that transgender individuals should have the opportunity to compete. Despite these viewpoints, Scanlan contends that the issue requires attention for future policies in amateur and professional sports.