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Andrea Thompson was awarded the title of “World’s Strongest Woman” on Tuesday after a transgender controversy marred the competition.
Jammie Booker originally won the title, but accusations have since surfaced that Booker was born a man, highlighted by what appears to be a YouTube video of Booker claiming to be “trans.”
Thompson celebrated the victory on social media, but called it “the most grueling experience of my career.”
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Andrea Thompson, left, finished second behind an alleged transgender athlete in the 2025 World’s Strongest Woman competition. (Laurence Shahlaei)
“What should be a momentous occasion has unfortunately been overshadowed by scandal and dishonesty from someone who was welcomed into our crazy sport. A sport that encourages women to celebrate themselves without being judged by how society says they should be…” Thompson wrote on Instagram.
“Not only am I frustrated for not being able to celebrate a victory, but also for the women who had their time taken away from shining on the podium or making it to the final day…
“I thank the team for reaching out to me, investigating and rectifying the situation so quickly. Honoring the title for me, which is something we simply don’t see in any other sport that has faced a similar situation. This means that we, as a community, ARE taking a stand. Protecting women’s sport like we have fought so hard for. While I can’t say it won’t happen again, I am confident we will work on something to prevent it in the future.
A stack of weights in a warm-up room. (Kevin Langley/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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“For now, ladies, keep showing up. Take up space. Make noise. Be proud. Show your daughters how wonderful you are. Much love.”
Thompson also called for the “backlash” against her fellow competitors “for simply being women” to stop.
According Strongman ArchivesBooker had not competed in women’s events before last June. It is unclear if Booker had previously competed as a man.
Strongman announced Booker’s disqualification on Tuesday, admitting that he was unaware of allegations that Booker was born a man.
“If we had been aware, or if this had been declared at any time before or during the competition, this athlete would not have been allowed to compete in the Women’s Open category. We are clear: competitors can only compete in the category based on the biological sex registered at birth.” Officer Strongman said in an announcement Tuesday. “Official Strongman is inclusive and prides itself on organizing events that do not discriminate against athletes based on their personal characteristics. Any athlete is welcome. But it is our responsibility to ensure fairness and ensure that athletes are assigned to male or female categories based on whether they are registered as male or female at birth.”
Jammie Booker is known to have competed in only three official Strongman events, winning two. (iStock)
Strongman said he tried to contact Booker but got no response. Booker’s social media has since been made private. The Texas attorney general also said they are investigating.
Thompson stepped off the podium as Booker celebrated and appeared to say, “This is bullshit…” Thompson’s coach, Laurence Shahlaei, told Pak Gazette Digital that Booker was “just disappointed in herself for losing.”
