Female Swimmer Calls for Apology Over Alleged ‘Forced Undressing’ Incident with Trans Teammate Lia Thomas

Paula Scanlan, a former teammate of Lia Thomas, has ignited a new wave of debate and discussion surrounding transgender inclusion in sports by demanding an apology for what she describes as repeated discomfort and trauma.

Lia Thomas lost her appeal against a rule from the World Aquatics governing body barring transgender women from competing in women’s races. AP Photo/Josh Reynolds, File

Scanlan’s statements come from recent decisions barring Thomas, a transgender swimmer, from competing in women’s events at the Olympic Games.

The controversy stems from Thomas’ transition from male to female and subsequent participation in women’s swimming.

Scanlan voiced her concerns about the impact on female athletes, recalling the distress of sharing locker rooms with Thomas multiple times a week.

For Scanlan, who is a survivor of sexual assault, the situation triggered profound discomfort, describing it as a re-traumatizing experience.

Paula Scanlan says she wants an apology “for forcing us to undress with him 18 times a week.” USA TODAY Sports

The issue has sparked national discourse on the fairness of transgender athletes competing in women’s sports, especially after Thomas became the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I title in women’s swimming in 2022. This achievement thrust Thomas into the spotlight and intensified scrutiny on policies governing transgender participation in sports.

In response to Thomas’ exclusion from women’s events by World Aquatics (WA), she pursued legal action challenging WA’s policy.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently upheld WA’s eligibility criteria, prohibiting athletes who have undergone male puberty from competing in the female category.

World Aquatics hailed the CAS decision as a significant stride towards maintaining fairness in women’s sports, reaffirming their commitment to equitable competition environments.

However, the ruling has also reignited discussions on the delicate balance between inclusivity and maintaining a level playing field in competitive sports.

Following the CAS ruling, Thomas emphasized the broader implications, calling for more excellent advocacy for transgender rights and dignity in sports.

Lia Thomas dominated the NCAA Swimming Championships in 2022Getty

This stance has positioned her case as a focal point in ongoing debates over gender inclusivity and its impact on athletic competition at elite levels.

The controversy underscores the complexities surrounding gender identity in sports and its evolving role in shaping policies worldwide. It prompts critical reflections on how sports organizations navigate inclusivity while upholding principles of fair competition and athlete welfare.

As stakeholders continue to grapple with these challenges, the case of Lia Thomas serves as a poignant reminder of the evolving landscape of sports governance and societal attitudes towards transgender inclusion.

Lia Thomas

It underscores the need for nuanced approaches and informed discussions to foster inclusive environments that respect the rights and aspirations of all athletes.

Moving forward, the legacy of Lia Thomas and the broader implications of her case will likely influence future policy decisions and advocacy efforts in sports, advocating for a balance between inclusivity and fairness on the global stage.

The ongoing dialogue sparked by this controversy is crucial in shaping a more equitable and respectful future for competitive sports worldwide.