TMZSports.com
Riley Gaines and Simone Biles might collaborate in the future! This intriguing possibility was expressed by the former All-American swimmer, who recently shared with TMZ Sports that she would “absolutely” welcome the opportunity to team up with the iconic gymnast.
This conversation follows a heated exchange on social media earlier this month between the two athletes. The situation escalated when the seven-time Olympic gold medalist issued an apology to the former University of Kentucky swim star after comparing her physical stature unfavorably to that of a man during a discussion on the involvement of trans athletes in youth girls’ sports.
In our interview with Riley, who is not only a political activist but also the host of the captivating podcast “Gaines For Girls,” we probed her thoughts on potentially working alongside Biles.
With enthusiasm, Riley responded, “Absolutely,” demonstrating her eagerness for collaboration.
She elaborated, stating, “Simone is a role model I have admired and respected for many years. She has made substantial contributions not only to women’s sports and gymnastics but also to empowering women in general.” This admiration highlights the significant influence Biles has had in advocating for female athletes.
Riley further articulated her feelings about Biles’ earlier remarks, explaining why they were particularly disappointing.
“Her comments struck me deeply, not merely because of the personal insults but due to how she leveraged her significant platform. Young girls across the nation, including my little sister who is a gymnast, look up to her as an inspirational figure,” she expressed, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with such a prominent presence in the sport.
Riley added, “In an instant, she seemed to retract her support for those who might look up to her. It appeared to be a hasty decision, reflecting a lack of understanding regarding the complexities of the issues at hand when she made those initial tweets on that Friday evening.”
However, it’s important to note that Simone Biles has since apologized for her comments regarding body shaming, and Riley recognizes the potential benefits of a partnership with Biles in addressing these pressing issues.
“I believe that [Simone] could serve as a phenomenal ally in this ongoing fight for equality in sports. Her influence remains remarkable, and her career has been nothing short of illustrious. I am confident that together we could accomplish a great deal if she is open to the collaboration,” Riley concluded, showcasing her belief in the power of unity in advocating for change.
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