Riley Gaines has recently expressed her thoughts on social media regarding Simone Biles, a well-known Olympic gold medalist and highly regarded gymnast.
In the latest episode of her podcast, “Gaines for Girls,” Gaines shared her reactions shortly after Biles criticized her online.
“In just two tweets, Simone Biles has managed to damage her reputation as someone who values honesty and has a moral compass, particularly when it comes to protecting women’s opportunities,” Gaines remarked. “The feedback I’ve seen over the past twelve hours essentially undermines her legacy with just those two tweets.”
Biles had launched an attack on Gaines following a discussion about a transgender athlete who won a state championship in Minnesota softball, which Gaines commented on as a former NCAA swimmer.
During her comments, Biles referred to Gaines as a “bully,” stating that “no one in the sport is safe with you.”
Gaines argued on her podcast that Biles’s statements seemed to show a desire to align with supporters of transgender athletes, reminiscent of Megan Rapinoe’s approach. Rapinoe had previously voiced her support for transgender players in the US women’s national team.
“What Biles has done is essentially pull up the ladder behind her,” Gaines noted. “We’ve seen figures like Megan Rapinoe do this, and now Biles seems to be following suit.” She pointed out that they have been awaiting a more significant stance on the issue from these athletes.
“I can handle personal attacks, but I just can’t grasp why Simone Biles supports this stance in 2025,” Gaines added.
Biles has expressed her willingness to engage in discussions regarding transgender athletes in women’s sports. Gaines has been vocal about women’s sports equity, especially since her controversial tie with Leah Thomas at the 2022 NCAA Championship.
Gaines concluded, “I think she made those remarks without truly considering the consequences. Without women’s gymnastics, Simone Biles wouldn’t be the household name she is today.”
