The retired Olympic gymnast, 28, has accused former teammate Simone Biles of bullying, days after the 11-time Olympic medalist apologized to Riley Gaines for comments made during a heated social media debate over transgender athletes. Speaking recently on “The Will Cain Show,” Skinner reiterated sentiments made in a statement Friday to One America News that alleged she “endured being belittled, dismissed, and ostracized behind the scenes by Simone.”
In a dramatic twist that has captivated the gymnastics community, retired Olympian MyKayla Skinner has accused her former teammate, Simone Biles, of bullying. This revelation comes amid a broader controversy involving conservative activist Riley Gaines, igniting debates over inclusivity, fairness, and the dynamics within elite sports.
The Genesis of the Feud: Skinner’s Controversial Comments
The tension between Skinner and Biles began when Skinner made comments suggesting that the current generation of gymnasts lacked the work ethic of previous teams. In a now-deleted YouTube video, Skinner stated, “Besides Simone, I feel like the talent and the depth just isn’t like what it used to be… A lot of girls don’t work as hard. The girls just don’t have the work ethic” .
Biles’ Response: A Public Clapback
Following Skinner’s remarks, Biles took to Instagram, sharing a post with a caption that many interpreted as a direct jab at Skinner: “lack of talent, lazy, olympic champions ❤️🥇🇺🇸” . This public response intensified the rift between the two gymnasts.
Skinner’s Reaction: Blocking Biles and Apology
In the aftermath, Skinner blocked Biles on Instagram, signaling a deepening of their discord. However, Skinner later issued a public apology, stating that her comments had been “misinterpreted” and clarifying that she had reached out to Biles and other teammates to express her regret .
The Riley Gaines Factor: A Catalyst for Conflict
The situation escalated when Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer turned conservative activist, criticized the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports. Biles defended the inclusion of transgender athletes, leading to a heated exchange with Gaines . Skinner publicly supported Gaines, which further strained her relationship with Biles.
Skinner’s Allegations: Bullying and Ostracism
In June 2025, Skinner accused Biles of bullying, claiming that Biles had belittled and ostracized her during their time on the U.S. gymnastics team. Skinner described feeling dismissed and marginalized by Biles, alleging that Biles used her influence to silence dissenting voices within the team .
The Fallout: Cyberbullying and Death Threats
The controversy took a darker turn when Skinner reported receiving death threats and hateful messages directed at her and her family. She pleaded with Biles to use her platform to stop the online harassment, emphasizing the toll it was taking on her personal life .
Biles’ Apology: A Step Toward Reconciliation?
In response to the escalating situation, Biles issued a public apology to Skinner, acknowledging the need for empathy and understanding in the face of differing opinions. While the apology was seen by some as a step toward healing, others questioned the sincerity of Biles’ gesture .
The Gymnastics Community Reacts
The feud has sparked widespread discussion within the gymnastics community, with many expressing support for Skinner’s call to end cyberbullying. Former teammates and fellow athletes have weighed in, highlighting the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect, even amidst disagreements.
Media Coverage: Amplifying the Conflict
Media outlets have extensively covered the feud, with headlines ranging from “Simone Biles Accused of Bullying by Ex-Teammate MyKayla Skinner” to “Simone Biles Dragged Into Bullying Scandal” . This extensive coverage has kept the story in the public eye, fueling ongoing debates.
Public Opinion: Divided Loyalties
Public opinion remains divided, with some siding with Skinner, praising her for speaking out against bullying, while others defend Biles, citing her achievements and contributions to the sport. This division reflects broader societal debates over accountability, power dynamics, and the treatment of athletes.
Looking Ahead: Can the Rift Be Healed?
As the situation continues to unfold, questions remain about whether Skinner and Biles can reconcile their differences. Both have expressed a desire for resolution, but the path to healing may be complicated by past grievances and public scrutiny.
Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale
The feud between Simone Biles and MyKayla Skinner serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of relationships in elite sports. It underscores the importance of communication, empathy, and respect, both on and off the field. As the gymnastics community watches closely, the hope is that this conflict can lead to positive change and a renewed commitment to supporting one another.
