Former Olympic gymnast MyKayla Skinner, 28, has accused her former teammate Simone Biles of harassment and exclusionary behavior during their time in elite gymnastics. The allegation comes just days after Biles publicly apologized to swimmer and activist Riley Gaines following a heated exchange about the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports.
In a recent interview with The Will Cain Show, Skinner claimed she was subjected to “belittling, exclusion, and degrading remarks” by Biles on multiple occasions during training camps and practices. “I’ve stayed quiet for a long time because she has such a huge platform, but it’s time to speak up,” said the Olympic medalist.
The world of elite gymnastics has been rocked by a public feud between two of its most prominent figures: Simone Biles and MyKayla Skinner. What began as a professional rivalry has now escalated into serious allegations of bullying, coinciding with the ongoing debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports. This article delves into the origins of their strained relationship, the accusations made by Skinner, and the broader implications for the gymnastics community and sports inclusivity.
The Genesis of the Feud: Skinner’s Critique of Team USA
In the lead-up to the 2024 Paris Olympics, MyKayla Skinner, a former Olympic gymnast, expressed concerns about the work ethic of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team. 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. Just notice like, I mean, obviously a lot of girls don’t work as hard.” These comments did not sit well with her former teammates, leading to a public backlash.
Simone Biles Responds: A Sharp Retort on Social Media
Following Skinner’s remarks, Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, took to Instagram to respond. Hours after Team USA clinched the gold medal in the team all-around competition, Biles posted a carousel of photos with teammates, captioning it: “Lack of talent, lazy, Olympic champions ❤️🥇🇺🇸.” This was widely interpreted as a direct rebuttal to Skinner’s criticism.
The Fallout: Skinner Blocks Biles and Receives Backlash
The tension between the two gymnasts escalated when Skinner blocked Biles on Instagram. Skinner later expressed her heartbreak over the situation, stating that she never intended to offend anyone and was disheartened by Biles’ public response. She also revealed that she had received death threats, prompting her to plead for an end to the cyberbullying.
The Harassment Accusation: Skinner Speaks Out
In June 2025, Skinner publicly accused Biles of bullying, claiming that during their time on the U.S. gymnastics team, Biles belittled and ostracized her. Skinner addressed these allegations during an interview on “The Will Cain Show” and in a statement to One America News, citing long-standing mistreatment.
Biles’ Apology: A Step Towards Reconciliation
In response to the growing controversy, Biles issued a public apology to Riley Gaines, a conservative activist with whom she had clashed over the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports. Biles acknowledged the need for empathy and emphasized the complexity of balancing inclusivity and competition in sports.
The Transgender Athlete Debate: A Divisive Issue
The feud between Biles and Skinner coincided with the ongoing debate over transgender athletes’ participation in women’s sports. Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer, has been a vocal critic of transgender inclusion, arguing that it undermines fair competition. Biles, on the other hand, has advocated for inclusivity, leading to a public disagreement between the two.
Public Reactions: Support and Criticism for Both Sides
The gymnastics community has been divided in its support for Biles and Skinner. Some have rallied behind Biles, praising her for her achievements and leadership, while others have expressed sympathy for Skinner, citing her experiences of bullying and exclusion. The situation has sparked broader discussions about mental health, inclusivity, and the pressures faced by elite athletes.
The Role of Social Media: Amplifying the Conflict
Social media has played a significant role in amplifying the feud between Biles and Skinner. Posts, comments, and direct messages have fueled the controversy, leading to widespread attention and public discourse. The incident highlights the challenges athletes face in navigating their personal and professional lives in the digital age.
Mental Health Considerations: The Impact on Athletes
The allegations and subsequent fallout have raised concerns about the mental health of the athletes involved. Both Biles and Skinner have been advocates for mental health awareness, and the situation underscores the importance of supporting athletes in managing stress, criticism, and public scrutiny.
The Future of Team USA Gymnastics: Moving Forward
As the gymnastics community grapples with these issues, the focus remains on the future of Team USA. Efforts are being made to foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for athletes, ensuring that such conflicts do not overshadow the sport’s achievements.
Conclusion: A Complex Situation with No Easy Answers
The feud between Simone Biles and MyKayla Skinner is a multifaceted issue that intertwines personal grievances with broader societal debates. While both athletes have made significant contributions to gymnastics, their public conflict serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by elite athletes in the spotlight. Moving forward, it is essential for the gymnastics community to address these issues constructively, promoting understanding and respect among all members.
