In a bombshell message that sparked fierce debates across politics, sports and culture, transgender swimmer Lia Thomas explained today that she will leave the United States permanently – APD will never return.
“I’m angry at this country. I’m angry at the hypocrisy. I’m angry at the fighting,” Thomas said in a stunning live broadcast that aired Monday morning. “You took everything from me — my titles, my dignity and my right to compete.”
The shocking statement comes just days after the International Water Sports Association (IAF) and the U.S. College Athletics Committee jointly decided to strip Thomas of all her medals and ultimately ban her from women’s sports . According to the official, the decision was based on “new biological fitness standards” that disqualified all her previous service.
The backlash was immediate and explosive. Thomas’ supporters described the decision as a blatant act of transgender discrimination. “This isn’t about justice. This is about banning people like LIA from public life,” said one LGBTQ+ rights advocate.
But critics – including several prominent former Olympic participants – have described the regulation as “long overdue”.
“Women’s sports need to be protected,” tweeted former swimmer Riley Gaipes, who has frequently clashed with Thomas in public forums. “It’s about biological reality, not identity.”
As for Thomas, sources report that he is headed to an undisclosed location in Europe and may seek asylum in a country with a more exclusive gender policy. In her latest message to her followers, she was at a loss for words:
“The US has shown me what it does to people it cannot categorize or control. I will not give you the chance to do that again.”
It’s clear whether you see her as a trailblazer or a beacon of light. Lia Thomas is good—and the firestorm she’s unleashed is far from over.
