In a groundbreaking decision, the NCAA has ruled to strip Lia Thomas of all previously earned titles. The move comes after mounting debates and growing public pressure regarding fairness in women’s sports.
Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer, sparked national controversy after competing and winning in NCAA women’s swimming events.

Critics argued that the competitive edge due to biological differences created an unfair playing field, leading to widespread calls for action. This latest decision marks a significant shift in the NCAA’s stance and sets a new precedent in collegiate sports. Supporters of the ruling see it as a step toward protecting the integrity of women’s athletics, while others anticipate continued debate over inclusion and fairness in sports.

The NCAA has not yet released detailed comments on the decision, but this ruling will undoubtedly reignite conversations nationwide about the future of sports, fairness, and evolving regulations.

Thomas did not immediately respond to ABC News’ requests for comment on the lawsuit.

„This lawsuit is the latest effort to eliminate the ability of transgender athletes to exist in the same spaces as cisgender athletes, and to erode the autonomy of sport governing bodies to set evidence-based eligibility criteria as they see fit,” Athlete Ally, a nonprofit LGBTQ athletic advocacy group, said in a new statement on Monday.

„We empathize with the pain felt by any athlete who falls short of their athletic goals, but singling out, scapegoating, or otherwise targeting trans athletes as the cause for those failures is unfounded and perpetuates stigma, stereotypes and discrimination against transgender Americans,” Hudson Taylor, founder and executive director of Athlete Ally, said.