Gaines took exception to Biles’ suggestion that Gaines had lost the race against Thomas, as well as to the idea that it is Gaines’ responsibility to “be uplifting transgender people” or to “validate the feelings of a man.”
Gaines pointed out that Biles’ words acknowledge a difference between men and women and also expressed surprise that Biles would body shame her. In the past, Biles has spoken out publicly against body shaming.
Gaines further saw an inconsistency with Biles testifying against sexual predator Larry Nassar but having no problem with young women being “undressed next to a man who is fully undressed while that man watches me shower.”
The former competitive swimmer shared that some of Biles’ teammates had reached out to Gaines privately and told Gaines that Biles has a new Netflix documentary and was trying to attract publicity to promote it.
Riley Gaines Responds to Simone Biles’ Apology
Simone Biles continued her apology to Riley Gaines by saying, “These are sensitive, complicated issues that I truly don’t have the answers or solutions to, but I believe it starts with empathy and respect. I was not advocating for policies that compromise fairness in women’s sports.”
“My objection is to be singling out children for public scrutiny in ways that feel personal and harmful,” Biles said. “Individual athletes—especially kids—should never be the focus of criticism of a flawed system they have no control over.”
“I believe sports organizations have a responsibility to come up with rules supporting inclusion while maintaining fair competition,” she concluded. “We all want a future for sport that is fair, inclusive, and respectful. Xoxo Simone.”
“I accept Simone’s apology for the personal attacks including the ones where she body-shamed me,” Gaines replied on X. “I know she knows what this feels like. She’s still the greatest female gymnast of all time.”
“A couple of things,” Gaines continued. “Sports ARE inclusive by nature. Anyone can and everyone SHOULD play sports. Competition, on the other hand and by definition, is exclusive. So the idea of ‘competitive equity’ is nonsensical.”
“Secondly, the boys are publicly humiliating the girls. To suggest that women and girls must be silent or ignore a boy who is PUBLICLY hurting or humiliating them is wrong,” said Gaines. “You can’t have any empathy and compassion for the girls if you’re ignoring when young men are harming or abusing them. I am not ashamed to be a voice for the voiceless.”
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“Lastly, I agree with you that the blame is on the lawmakers and leaders at the top. Precisely why I’m suing the NCAA and support candidates who vow to stand with women,” Gaines said. “That’s why I joined @realDonaldTrump at the signing of his Executive Order. I didn’t see you there or championing this effort with your platform.”
“Women’s sports can’t be used as an excuse for girl’s [sic] to center the feelings and validation of men and boys,” Gaines said. “I welcome you to the fight to support fair sports and a future for female athletes. Little girls deserve the same shot to achieve that you had.”
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