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The noise around Lia Thomas doesn't stop, and it doesn't seem to be for long. Lia is the main topic in the media, many argue how 'correct' it is that Lia can compete in the women's category, but that will not change anything.
Riley Gaines, a University of Kentucky swimmer who tied for 5th place with Lia Thomas, revealed that many of her colleagues oppose Lia Thomas ’competition in the women’s category. 'I know just talking to tons, and tons of NCAA swimmers that their athletic directors, their media people and their coaches or other outside influencers have told them "don't say anything, just avoid the situation, save face a little bit".
'But I'm just fortunate enough to have such an amazing support system at the University of Kentucky, whether that be from the athletic director all the way down to my head coach,' Gaines explained, as quoted by fox sports.
Riley Gaines on Lia Thomas
Riley Gaines opposes Lia Thomas and has shown great courage in publicly condemning her. However, the question is whether this move will cost her and whether she will be penalized for it. However, her opinion seems to be shared by most female swimmers and others, but they are not allowed to talk about it publicly, precisely because of the consequences they may suffer.
'But just speaking for them it's just totally wrong. I know I can't speak for everyone but I'm almost certain that I'm speaking for large majority of female athletes and this is just not okay. And it's not fair. 'We're dealing with something that's completely out of our control when we're racing, biological males whether they have different lung capacities, their height, testosterone levels whether they've used testosterone blockers are not.
'It doesn't suppress going through puberty as a male. Especially Lia who swam for three years as a male. It's completely unfair and it's a matter of equity really.'