Simone Biles is speaking out again after slamming Riley Gaines for her views on transgender athletes in sports. The Olympic gymnast clarified her comments in a lengthy message on X, stating that the conversation "starts with empathy and respect" and that she was "not advocating for policies that compromise fairness in women's sports".

Biles, 28, posted a follow-up message on X on Tuesday, June 10, telling her followers she wanted to "follow up" on her last posts from the weekend. She had previously called Gaines, a conservative activist and former swimmer, a "sore loser" and "truly sick" after Gaines commented on a post featuring players posing with their first softball state championship plaque, referring to transgender athlete Marissa Rothenberger as a "boy".

"I've always believed competitive equity & inclusivity are both essential in sport," Biles began in her follow-up post. "The current system doesn't adequately balance these important principles, which often leads to frustration and heated exchanges, and it didn't help for me to get personal with Riley, which I apologize for."

Biles continued, "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. 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. We all want a future for sport that is fair, inclusive, and respectful," Biles concluded, signing off with, "Xoxo Simone."

Background of the Debate

The debate sparked after Gaines commented on a post from the Minnesota State High School League, referring to transgender athlete Marissa Rothenberger as a "boy". Biles called out Gaines, saying she was "truly sick" and a "sore loser". The exchange was sparked by the ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to push back against states, like California, who are permitting transgender athletes to participate in sports that align with their gender identity.

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