In a shocking turn of events, both Lia Thomas and Simone Biles have made headlines with their bold statements about leaving the United States and withdrawing from the 2028 Olympics if Michael Phelps is appointed as the U.S. team leader. Their remarks have ignited a media storm, with strong reactions from fans, athletes, and public figures alike.
Thomas, a transgender swimmer who has been at the center of ongoing debates over transgender athletes’ participation in women’s sports, made her announcement first. “I want to leave the United States,” Thomas declared in a recent interview. “I feel like I’m no longer respected here, and with everything that’s happening, I believe it’s time for me to move on. If Michael Phelps is going to be the leader of the U.S. team, I won’t be participating in the 2028 Olympics.”
Her statement set off a chain reaction, with Simone Biles following suit. The Olympic gold medalist gymnast expressed her frustration with the situation and took a similar stance: “I will also leave the United States and will not participate in the 2028 Olympics as part of the U.S. team if Michael Phelps is appointed as the team leader. He does not deserve that position.”
Both athletes voiced their discontent with Phelps, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest Olympians of all time. The reasons for their objections were not fully elaborated, but the controversy surrounding Phelps’ past comments and views may have played a role in their decision to speak out.
The comments from Thomas and Biles caused an immediate stir, drawing strong reactions from the public. Fans of both athletes voiced support for their right to speak out, while others criticized their refusal to compete under Phelps’ leadership. The backlash reached new heights when billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk joined the conversation, making his own controversial comments.
In a tweet that further fueled the fire, Musk stated, “If you’re going to turn your back on the U.S. team because of one individual, then perhaps it’s best to reconsider your place in the system.” His words immediately sparked widespread condemnation from supporters of Thomas and Biles, while some agreed with Musk’s stance. The situation escalated quickly, with both Thomas and Biles facing significant public backlash.
This has resulted in what can only be described as a wave of boycott against the two athletes, with some calling for them to leave the U.S. altogether. The situation has reached a point where many are questioning whether the upcoming 2028 Olympics will be overshadowed by such controversies, and if these kinds of disputes will impact the spirit of the Games.
As of now, Thomas and Biles have not backed down from their positions, despite the growing controversy. The public feud has also raised important questions about the role of leadership in sports, the influence of historical figures like Michael Phelps, and how athletes navigate the complex intersection of politics, personal beliefs, and their professional careers.
While the fallout continues to unfold, one thing is clear: this controversy has deeply divided the Olympic community and will undoubtedly be one of the major talking points leading up to the 2028 Games. The question remains whether the two athletes will stand by their decisions or if the pressures of public opinion will lead to a change in stance.
