“Nobody Wants Me on Their Team,” Lia Thomas says in her announcement of retirement from competitive swimming.

“Nobody Wants Me on Their Team,” Lia Thomas says in her announcement of retirement from competitive swimming.

The groundbreaking transgender swimmer Lia Thomas, who gained notoriety for her historic collegiate swimming feats, has declared her retirement from competitive swimming. “Nobody wants me on their team,” Thomas said candidly, expressing emotions of loneliness.

As a member of the University of Pennsylvania women’s swim team, Thomas attracted national attention by breaking numerous records and igniting discussions about sports equity and inclusivity. There were differing views in the sports community as a result of her involvement; some hailed her as a sign of advancement, while others questioned it.

“Swimming has been my life, but the journey has also come with immense scrutiny and misunderstanding,” Thomas said in her declaration, reflecting on the difficulties she has encountered. I’ve come to the conclusion that my participation in competition swimming has become contentious, and it’s time for me to take a backseat.

Though she made no mention of her future plans, Thomas alluded to her continued support of LGBTQ+ inclusion and rights in sports. Her influence on the discussion of transgender athletes in competitive sports is indisputable, even if she is retired.

Her retirement has elicited a range of responses, with some applauding her bravery and others still raising concerns about striking a balance between justice and inclusivity. Regardless of opinions, Lia Thomas’s career will always be a significant turning point in the development.