Trigger Warning: This article mentions details about transgender discrimination.
In recent news, Anne Isabella Coombes, a 67-year-old trans swimmer, contested topless in an ‘open’ category race to protest Swim England’s updated policies that barred her from competing in the women’s division. Coombes reportedly began her transition process in 2020 when she was 63 during the COVID-19 lockdown and had previously participated in women’s swimming events.
However, Swim England’s rule change in 2023 now requires anyone assigned male at birth to compete in the ‘open category,’ which includes men, trans, and non-binary athletes. The swimmer made headlines at the Cornwall County Masters event, where she swam with her chest uncovered to highlight what she describes as an inconsistency and lack of concern in the policy.
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As per the outlet, Tyla, speaking to the Reading Chronicle, Anne Isabella Coombes aims to highlight the policy’s bias. “I’m trying to show that this policy isn’t well thought out—it targets trans people and no one else,” Coombes said. She also disputed that she holds a competitive advantage, stating, “That just isn’t the case.”
Anne, who lived mostly in Reading, England, had been an active member of the Reading Swimming Club for 30 years. In 2022, she applied to Swim England to compete in the women’s category. After submitting detailed personal information and medical documentation, officials approved her participation until the open category was introduced. The new policy aimed to “protect fairness in competition.”
Coombes explained that officials instructed her to wear a female swimming costume in the open category. She said this directive effectively “outs” trans women and creates confusion. “Wearing male swimwear would result in disqualification,” she added.
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She chose not to participate in swimming competitions anymore due to sheer disappointment. Still, in 2025, she decided to return and protest. She spoke to the media and said, “There’s this idea I have a so-called male advantage, but that’s just not true,” she said. “We’re not dominating the sport, and if that ever happens, I’d be the first to push for a fair review. Right now, it’s a non-issue.”
The controversy comes in the wake of a UK Supreme Court ruling on April 16, 2025, which determined that transgender women are not legally considered “women” under the Equality Act. The furious activist said that trans people want to live their lives and be acknowledged for who they are. “We now have to speak out.” We exist, and we won’t be silenced. Existence is resistance.”
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Meanwhile, in America, upon President Donald Trump‘s return to power for his second term, he signed multiple executive orders, one of which prevents transgender women from competing in female categories of sports. The order, which was implemented in January 2025, largely covers high schools, universities, and grassroots sports. (via BBC).
While certain radical Trump supporters love this notion, others have condemned it. Trump further stated that the order would include the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. He has said he will decline visas for transgender Olympic athletes trying to visit the US to compete at the LA Games.
It’s remorseful to see talented individuals like Anne Isabella Coombes struggling to live peacefully with their chosen sexuality. Her controversial “topless” stunt comes amid broader debates about trans inclusion in sports that have been a brewing topic of discussion in the West for quite some time.
