Riley Gaines Criticizes Simone Biles’ Comments on Trans Athletes
Riley Gaines, a former NCAA All-American swimmer, took issue with Simone Biles’ recent comments regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports. During an episode of her podcast, Gaines analyzed Biles’ social media post and argued that the gymnast’s call for a third category for transgender athletes unintentionally acknowledges that these individuals are men.
Gaines emphasized that Biles’ suggestion to create a new avenue for transgender athletes could be interpreted as legitimizing male participation in women’s sports. She also referenced how organizations like World Aquatics have previously implemented similar compromises, such as creating an open category for transgender swimmers, which were later scrapped due to a lack of interest.
Gaines further stated that the proposed compromise should not be directed to her, urging the other side to weigh in on the issue, as it appears to be a stance that the other side is unwilling to accept. The discussion underscores the ongoing debate over the inclusion of transgender athletes in competitive sports.