Riley Gaines, the former swimmer and conservative activist, says she’s open to working with Olympic gymnast Simone Biles in the future, despite their recent public feud.
Gaines, known for her vocal stance against transgender women in women’s sports, was asked by TMZ Sports if she would ever collaborate with Biles, who criticized her for her anti-transgender remarks. Gaines didn’t hesitate, saying, “Absolutely.”
Respect for Biles and Her Legacy
Despite their differences, Gaines expressed admiration for Biles, acknowledging her immense contribution to both gymnastics and women’s sports. “Simone is someone I’ve looked up to, I’ve respected for so long,” Gaines said. “She has done so much for women’s sports, of course, for the sport of gymnastics, but even broader than that for women in general.”
Gaines, 25, went on to explain that Biles’ remarks about her were not personally hurtful but instead deeply affected her because of the influence Biles has on young girls. Gaines mentioned her little sister, who is a gymnast, and emphasized how Biles’ actions seemed to set back women’s sports by excluding certain voices.
“In the blink of an eye, she effectively pulled up the ladder behind her,” Gaines said. “I think there was a lot of ignorance to the issue when she issued her initial tweets.”
A Call for Unity and Collaboration
While their feud began over differing views on transgender athletes in sports, Gaines believes Biles could be a powerful ally in advocating for changes in how sports include transgender athletes while maintaining fairness. Gaines said, “Her platform is still incredible. Her career has been illustrious, to say the least. I think we could do a lot together if she was willing to do it.”
Gaines also emphasized that their combined influence could help address the complexities surrounding the issue, saying that Biles would be a “fantastic ally in this fight.”
The Feud Between Gaines and Biles
The public clash between Gaines and Biles began on June 6 when Gaines criticized a transgender softball player in response to a celebratory post from the Minnesota State High School League. Biles reacted strongly, calling Gaines “truly sick” and accusing her of being a sore loser after losing a race.
Biles also challenged Gaines’ stance, suggesting the idea of creating a separate category for transgender athletes in all sports.
Gaines, in turn, accused Biles of bullying and body-shaming her, as well as “being a male-apologist at the expense of young girls’ dreams.” The heated exchange continued online, with Biles later apologizing for getting “personal” and acknowledging the complexity of the issue.
Biles clarified that she wasn’t advocating for unfair policies but believed in empathy, respect, and fair competition in sports.
Biles also emphasized that the issue shouldn’t focus on criticizing individual athletes, especially children, who have little control over the systems in place.
Moving Forward
While their opinions remain divided on the issue, both women have shown a willingness to engage in more respectful dialogue. Biles’ apology for the personal nature of her comments showed a level of maturity, while Gaines expressed openness to future collaboration if Biles is willing.
As the debate continues to unfold, Gaines remains firm in her stance on protecting the integrity of women’s sports, while Biles advocates for inclusivity and fairness.
The conversation around transgender athletes in sports is complex and evolving, but both figures are now at the center of it, with large platforms that could help shape the future of the debate.
