Doctors have confirmed that trans swimmer Lia Thomas retains an unfair advantage over her competitors, even after undergoing testosterone suppressant therapy, as required by the NCAA. Mayo Clinic’s Dr. Michael Joyner and sports physiologist Dr. Ross Tucker stated that the inherent physiological differences, underscored by testosterone levels, cannot be fully mitigated.
Thomas, who transitioned in 2020, quickly ascended to the top of women’s swimming, sparking controversy and debate within the sport. Critics, including tennis legends Martina Navratilova and trans athlete Renee Richards, argue that such advantages undermine fair competition. This situation underscores the complex balance between inclusivity and competitive fairness in sports, igniting a broad discussion on the future of trans athletes in professional leagues.