Riley Gaines responds after Simone Biles calls her out on social media
Simone Biles and OutKick host Riley Gaines engaged in a heated debate on social media regarding transgender athletes in girls sports, specifically in response to a Minnesota high school softball team’s championship win with a transgender pitcher.
The controversy began when Gaines criticized the Minnesota State High School League for disabling comments on a post featuring the championship-winning team, insinuating that the star player was a boy. Biles took offense to Gaines’ comments, calling her “truly sick” and advocating for the upliftment of transgender athletes.
In a video response, Gaines defended her stance, emphasizing that it is not the responsibility of women to validate men’s feelings or affirm their identity in sports. She also addressed Biles’ previous loss to Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer, and rejected the notion that women should prioritize inclusivity over fairness in sports.
Biles fired back, accusing Gaines of bullying the transgender community and suggesting the creation of a separate transgender category in all sports. She also highlighted the hypocrisy of Gaines’ support for women’s rights while advocating for the inclusion of biological males in female sports.
Despite acknowledging Biles’ bravery in speaking out against sexual abuse in gymnastics, Gaines pointed out the contradiction in advocating for women’s safety while promoting the inclusion of transgender individuals in women’s sports. She emphasized the importance of maintaining fairness and protecting the integrity of women’s sports.
The debate between Biles and Gaines underscores the ongoing controversy surrounding transgender athletes in girls sports and the need for a balanced approach that considers the rights and safety of all individuals involved. Studies have shown that a majority of people believe in preserving the integrity of girls and women’s sports by keeping biological males out.
It is essential to continue the conversation surrounding transgender athletes in sports while respecting the rights and concerns of all individuals involved. The debate between Biles and Gaines serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in addressing this contentious issue.
