Suffolk, UK – Britain’s Andrea Thompson has officially been awarded the World’s Strongest Woman 2025 title after the original winner, a transgender competitor, was disqualified for failing to meet eligibility rules. The decision comes two days after the competition concluded in Arlington, Texas, from 20–23 November.

Disqualification Sparks Title Change

The competition, organized by Strongman, only allows athletes to compete in categories that match their biological sex at birth. Thompson had initially finished second in the Woman’s Open category, behind an American competitor. Following the event, Strongman confirmed the disqualification of the original winner, stating that officials were previously unaware that the athlete was “biologically male and now identifies as female.”

In a statement, Strongman said: “Had we been aware, or had this been declared at any point before or during the competition, this athlete would not have been permitted to compete in the Woman’s Open category. It is our responsibility to ensure fairness and ensure athletes are assigned to men or women’s categories based on whether they are recorded as male or female at birth.”

Thompson Reflects on Her Victory

Andrea Thompson, 43, first crowned World’s Strongest Woman in 2018, acknowledged that while she was honored by the title, the circumstances surrounding her win had dampened the celebration.

Thompson posted on Instagram: “What should be a momentous occasion has sadly been overshadowed by scandal and dishonesty from someone who was welcomed into our crazy sport. I am not only frustrated with not being able to celebrate a win, but also for the ladies who had their time to shine on the podium or reach the final day, taken away from them.”

The Suffolk-based athlete also addressed the backlash and insults she and fellow competitors received following the decision: “This has been the most exhausting experience of my career… We, as a community, are taking a stand, protecting women’s sport as we have fought so hard for.”

Competition Overview

The 2025 World’s Strongest Woman contest featured six weightlifting events in the Woman’s Open category. Thompson had demonstrated remarkable strength and technique across all disciplines, making her a strong contender for the title even before the disqualification.

The event underscores the importance of clear eligibility rules in competitive sports and has reignited discussions about fairness, integrity, and inclusivity in strength athletics.

Reaction from the Strength Sports Community

The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with many supporting Strongman’s ruling to ensure fair competition, while others debated the broader implications for transgender participation in women’s sports. Thompson emphasized that her focus remains on celebrating the achievements of women in strength athletics and fostering a safe, equitable environment for all competitors.