Olympic gymnastics champion Simone Biles has publicly criticized former college swimmer Riley Gaines over her comments regarding transgender athletes in women's sports. The exchange unfolded on social media, with Biles calling Gaines "sick" and a "sore loser" in response to Gaines' remarks about a transgender player on a Minnesota high school baseball team.

The controversy began when Gaines, a vocal opponent of transgender women competing in female sports, posted a comment on X, formerly known as Twitter, mocking the Minnesota State High School League for disabling comments on a post celebrating the Champlin Park High School girls' baseball team, which includes a transgender athlete. Gaines wrote, "Comments off lol... To be expected when your star player is a boy."

Biles, who is known for her advocacy for mental health and inclusivity, quickly responded. "You’re truly sick, all of this campaigning because you lost a race," she wrote, referencing Gaines' fifth-place finish in a 2022 competition against transgender swimmer Lia Thomas. Biles urged Gaines to focus on uplifting the transgender community and suggested creating a new category for transgender athletes in all sports. "One thing's for sure is no one in sports is safe with you around!" Biles added.

Gaines, who has gained significant attention as a conservative media figure, did not back down from Biles' criticism. In a series of posts, she expressed disappointment in Biles' stance, labeling her a "male-apologist at the expense of young girls' dreams." Gaines further insinuated that Biles should consider competing in men's gymnastics, stating, "Maybe she could compete in pommel horse and rings in 2028."

The debate over transgender athletes in women's sports has intensified in recent years. In March 2024, Gaines was part of a group of college athletes who filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, claiming it violated Title IX by allowing Thomas to compete in the women's category. Since then, Gaines has become a prominent figure in the movement against transgender participation in women's sports, arguing that it is unfair and unsafe.

The issue has garnered national attention, with at least 27 states implementing laws or policies that restrict transgender students from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity. In February, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at prohibiting transgender women and girls from competing in female sports.

As the exchange between Biles and Gaines continues, both athletes remain firm in their positions, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding transgender participation in sports.