Conservative commentator Candace Owens has once again ignited controversy after calling for transgender swimmer Lia Thomas to be permanently banned from women’s sports, declaring bluntly: “It’s over now.”
Owens, known for her outspoken takes on gender and culture wars, delivered her remarks during a live broadcast of her podcast, where she accused sports organizations of “destroying the meaning of female competition” by allowing Thomas and other transgender women to compete against biological women.
“Women have fought for decades to have their own category, their own recognition, their own opportunities,” Owens said. “And now, in the name of woke ideology, we’re watching biological men take medals, take records, and take away fairness. It’s over now — enough is enough.”
The comments immediately went viral, fueling an already heated global debate. Supporters praised Owens for “speaking truth to power,” while critics slammed her remarks as transphobic and dangerous, pointing out that Thomas has followed the NCAA’s and swimming federation’s guidelines for transgender athletes.
Lia Thomas, who made history in 2022 by becoming the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I swimming title, has become a lightning rod in the cultural battle over gender identity and sports. For some, she represents progress and inclusion. For others, her participation raises fundamental questions about biology, fairness, and the future of women’s athletics.
Owens doubled down later on social media, writing: “This is not about hate. This is about fairness, reality, and protecting women’s rights. If you care about women, you cannot support Lia Thomas competing against them.”
The issue of transgender participation in sports has become one of the most divisive topics in recent years, drawing in politicians, athletes, advocacy groups, and now, once again, outspoken cultural commentators like Owens.
As the controversy rages on, governing bodies — including the International Olympic Committee and World Aquatics — continue to grapple with policies that attempt to balance inclusivity with fairness. Meanwhile, Owens’ latest remarks show no signs of cooling the debate.
One thing is certain: Lia Thomas’ name remains at the center of a cultural clash that shows no sign of ending anytime soon.
