Fairness Over Fame: Why Riley Gaines Deserves Our Support
Gaines Defends Women’s Sports Amid Biles’ Criticism Over Transgendered Biological Men Competing Against Women.
You would almost have to try to not know about the latest public back and forth between 7 time Olympic Gold Medal Winning Gymnist Simone Biles and former University of Kentucky 12 time All Star swimmer phenom Riley Gaines. Gaines is the undisputed leading voice against the injustice of biologial men being able to compete in womens sporting events. Apparently Biles thinks that Gaines is wrong, and thinks the opposite. Let me walk you through the exchange, and then I'll share my thoughts on this.
The Back And Forth
This is a fairly typical X post from Gaines — drawing attention to yet another example of unfairness.
Then look who responds…
Yup, apparently the more Olympic gold you have, the more rude you become. Anyways, Biles doubles-down again, and Gaines responds. You have to read this to believe it.
Fortunately Gaines has been a getting a LOT of support after she was the victim of this drive-by Biles trolling. Gaines actually recorded something for her followers on this, which I have uploaded here… My thoughts are below the must-watch video.
We’ve Seen The Full Exchange
Now that you’ve read the full back-and-forth between Riley Gaines and Simone Biles, the debate over transgender inclusion in women’s sports is clear. Biles labeled Gaines a “sore loser” and “sick,” while Gaines defended women’s athletics. I focus on the principles at stake, not the exchange’s details.
Standing for Fairness
Supporting Gaines is about fairness in women’s sports. She argues biological differences give transgender women an advantage, supported by data on performance disparities. Her advocacy protects female athletes’ right to compete equally, transcending labels. Biles’ criticism prioritizes identity over merit, but I stand with Gaines for every woman seeking to excel based on skill.
Championing Meritocracy
Labeling dissent as hate stifles debate. Biles’ platform shouldn’t silence Gaines, who represents millions advocating for fairness. This is about meritocracy, not politics. Gaines’ resilience challenges narratives, offering a model of principle. Supporting her ensures women’s sports remain about achievement, not ideology.
So, Does It Matter?
Gaines’ advocacy, rooted in data, deserves our support because it upholds fair competition. Biles’ fame doesn’t negate Gaines’ concerns; silencing her harms progress. We should prioritize fairness, ensuring athletes succeed based on effort, not identity. Gaines’ fight is one we should all champion for justice and equality in sports.
A Personal Reflection
I am happy for Biles’ in her personal achievements. She is truly one of the best athletes in the world. But I cannot help but think less of her now, not only for her unfair position on allowing men to play in women’s sports but for the negative and degrading manner in which she treated Gaines. Biles was a champion. Gaines is a champion. I stand with you, Riley!