'Drag Race' Star Gia Metric Wins Silver at World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore

In a groundbreaking moment for both the world of aquatics and the LGBTQ+ community, Gia Metric—internationally renowned drag artist and performer best known for competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race—clinched the silver medal in artistic swimming at the 2025 World Aquatics Masters Championships, held in Singapore between July 26 and August 22, 2025 . The event, which drew over 6,000 master-aged athletes from nearly 100 countries, is recognized as one of the most prestigious gatherings in aquatics, featuring disciplines such as swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming, and open water swimming .

Gia Metric’s silver-medal performance was met with an outpouring of praise and excitement across social media, with the performer posting “SILVER MEDAL 🥈OH MY GAAWDDD!” to their Instagram account (@gia.metric), tagging both @world_aquatics and @speedocanada. The celebratory post quickly went viral within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, highlighting the power of visibility and representation in international sport .

Gia Metric’s journey from drag stardom to elite athlete is a testament to the diverse talents and resilience found within the LGBTQ+ community. Known for their charisma and creativity on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Gia began training in artistic swimming just over ten months before the competition, as revealed in a candid social media update earlier this year . “Feeling like a champion in the water. Only a few more weeks until I compete in The World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore,” Gia shared with their followers, offering a glimpse into the dedication and excitement fueling their preparation .

The World Aquatics Masters Championships is renowned not only for its high level of competition but also for its spirit of camaraderie and inclusivity, bringing together athletes of all backgrounds and identities . Gia’s participation and success underscore the event’s commitment to diversity and the importance of welcoming LGBTQ+ athletes into every facet of international sport.

The significance of Gia Metric’s silver medal win extends far beyond the pool. In a sporting world where LGBTQ+ visibility is still evolving, Gia’s achievement stands as a beacon for queer athletes—particularly those who may not have previously seen themselves reflected on major athletic stages. As global conversations about inclusion in sports continue, high-profile successes like Gia’s serve as both inspiration and a call to action for sporting organizations to create truly welcoming environments.

Artistic swimming, traditionally dominated by cisgender women, has in recent years begun to open its doors to all gender identities. Gia’s accomplishment as an out and proud non-binary drag performer marks a historic milestone, reinforcing the message that talent, artistry, and athleticism know no gender boundaries .

The reaction from LGBTQ+ networks, athletic organizations, and fans worldwide has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media was flooded with congratulatory messages, with many highlighting Gia’s courage in pursuing athletic excellence while remaining unapologetically true to their identity. “This is a win for queer athletes everywhere,” wrote one supporter on Instagram, echoing a broader sentiment of pride and celebration .

Sports inclusion advocates hope that Gia Metric’s silver medal will spark further dialogue around access, opportunity, and representation for LGBTQ+ athletes in all sports, including those with long histories of gendered participation rules. Gia’s journey is already inspiring others to break out of traditional molds and pursue their passions—whether in drag, in the pool, or on any stage where authenticity and excellence meet.

With the World Aquatics Masters Championships wrapping up later this month, all eyes remain on Singapore as a symbol of progress, unity, and the ever-expanding possibilities for LGBTQ+ athletes worldwide .