Simone Biles discusses former Riley Gaines in defense of Trans athletes: “You are a resentful loser”
Simone Biles Defends Trans Athletes in Online Spat with Riley Gaines
A social media clash erupted between Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and former collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines over the participation of trans athletes in sports. The exchange unfolded on X after Gaines criticized a photo of the Champlin Park High School soccer team, which included a transgender athlete, celebrating their state championship victory.
Gaines, a vocal critic of trans athletes competing in women’s sports, specifically called out Marissa Rothenberger, a transgender player on the winning team. Biles responded sharply, accusing Gaines of resentment and urging her to support the trans community.
“You are bitter,” Biles said. “All this because you lost a race. You should support the trans community and perhaps find how sports are inclusive or create a new space where trans people feel safe in sport.” biles also suggested the creation of a transgender category in all sports to foster inclusivity and safety.
This is really very disappointing. It is not my work or that of any woman to discover how to include men in our spaces. You can support men who steal championships in women’s sport with your platform. Men have no place in women’s sport And I say it with all my soul,” Gaines replied.
Gaines countered that it was not women’s responsibility to find ways to include “men” in their spaces and reiterated her stance that “men have no place in women’s sport.” The debate highlights the ongoing tension surrounding the issue of trans athletes and sports inclusion.
What’s next
The discussion around trans athletes in sports is expected to continue, with advocates on both sides pushing for policies that reflect their views on fairness and inclusion.