After years of advocating for inclusivity and battling exclusion, artistic swimmer Bill May is finally set to achieve his lifelong dream of competing at the Olympics. A rule change in December 2022, allowing up to two men per team, paves the way for May’s historic debut at the Paris Games this year.

May, a 45-year-old veteran of the sport, has dominated artistic swimming wherever men were allowed to compete. He won his first national championship in the 1990s and even secured gold in the mixed duet technical event at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships alongside Christina Jones. However, the Olympics remained out of reach due to the sport’s previous gender restrictions.

The rule change marks a significant moment for artistic swimming, embracing inclusivity and recognizing the talent of male athletes. May’s inclusion not only represents a personal victory but also paves the way for future generations of male artistic swimmers who can now aspire to compete on the biggest sporting stage.

“This is something that I’ve dreamed of my whole life,” May shared, expressing his excitement about the upcoming Games. “It almost feels like a cliche to say it, but it’s true.”

While May’s age might raise questions about his competitive edge, his dedication and experience remain undeniable. He continues to train rigorously and inspire a new wave of male artistic swimmers. His participation in the Paris Olympics is sure to be a landmark moment, not just for May himself but for the entire sport as it embraces a more inclusive future.