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Andrea Thompson was awarded the title of “World’s Strongest Woman” on Tuesday after a transgender controversy spoiled the competition.
Jammie Booker initially won the title, but allegations that Booker was born male have since surfaced, 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 exhausting experience of my career.”
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Andrea Thompson, left, finished second to a suspected transgender athlete in the 2025 World’s Strongest Woman competition. (Laurence Shahlaei)
“What should be a momentous event has unfortunately been overshadowed by the scandal and dishonesty of someone who was welcomed into our crazy sport. A sport that encourages women to celebrate themselves without being judged for how society says they should be…” Thompson wrote on Instagram.
“I’m not only frustrated not to be able to celebrate a victory, but also for the ladies who had their time to shine on the podium or reach the final day, which was taken away from them…
“I’m grateful to the team for reaching out to me, investigating and rectifying the situation so quickly. Honoring the title, something we don’t see in any other sport that has faced a similar situation. It means we, as a community, are taking a stand. Protecting the women’s sport we fought so hard for. While I can’t say this will never happen again, I’m confident we’ll find 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. Be loud. Be proud. Show your girls how amazing you are. Much love.”
Thompson also called for “stopping” her competitors “for simply being women.”
According to Strongman ArchivesBooker hadn’t competed in women’s events until last June. It is unclear whether Booker had ever competed as a man.
Strongman announced Booker’s disqualification on Tuesday, admitting he was unaware of the allegations that Booker was born male.
“If we had known, or if it had been stated 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 of biological sex recorded at birth.” Official Strongman said in a statement Tuesday. “Official Strongman is inclusive and proud to host 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 has 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 he was investigating.
Thompson came down from the podium as Booker celebrated, appearing to say, “That’s bulls—.” Thompson’s coach, Laurence Shahlaei, told PK Press Club Digital that Booker “was just disappointed in herself for losing.”
