Riley Gaines says she is willing to work with Simone Biles in the future, amid the wake of their public war of words. After TMZ Sports asked Gaines, a former swimmer and conservative activist, if she would ever team up with the Olympic gymnast — who called her “truly sick” over her anti-transgender comments earlier this month — Gaines didn’t hesitate before replying, “Absolutely.” “Look, Simone is someone I’ve looked up to, I’ve respected for so long,” Gaines, 25, told the outlet. “She has done so much for women’s sports, of course, for the sport of gymnastics, but even broader than that for women in general.”
Gaines went on to tell TMZ Sports that the “stance” Biles, 28, shared “felt so deeply visceral to me not because of the personal attacks, but more so again because of how she used her platform, a platform where young girls all across the nation, young girls like my little sister, who’s a gymnast, look up to her.” “In the blink of an eye, she effectively pulled up the ladder behind her,” Gaines said of Biles. “And again, a way that was, I think, done in haste. I think there was a lot of ignorance to the issue when she issued her initial tweets on that Friday evening.”
Seemingly referring to her vocal stance against the participation of transgender women in women’s sports — which Biles pushed back on in their initial exchange of words — the former swimmer then told TMZ Sports that the gymnast “would be a fantastic ally in this fight.” “Her platform is still incredible. Her career has been illustrious, to say the least,” Gaines said. “I think we could do a lot together if she was willing to do it.”
Biles and Gaines’ social media feud began on June 6, when Gaines made anti-trans remarks about a transgender softball player while commenting on a celebratory post from the Minnesota State High School League. The heated exchange comes amid President Donald Trump’s administration’s ongoing efforts to push back against states like California, which are permitting transgender athletes to participate in sports that align with their gender identity.
In a headline-grabbing turn of events, former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines has made waves again—this time not with controversy, but a surprising gesture of reconciliation. After months of feuding over transgender athlete inclusion in women’s sports, Gaines recently shared she’d be open to working with Olympic legend Simone Biles, if Biles was also willing.
This isn’t just celebrity drama. It’s a cultural flashpoint, a conversation that’s gripping America, blending the worlds of sports, politics, and identity. Let’s break down how we got here, what Gaines really said, and why this story is far from over.
Who is Riley Gaines?
A Voice in the Debate on Women’s Sports
Riley Gaines rose to prominence not just for her NCAA swimming career at the University of Kentucky, but also for her outspoken stance on protecting women’s sports.
She has become a leading conservative figure, advocating for policies that would restrict transgender women from competing in female sports categories.
Her Platform and Influence
With growing media appearances and alliances with political figures, Gaines is no stranger to controversy. Love her or hate her, she’s a central figure in this national conversation.
Who is Simone Biles?
The GOAT of Gymnastics
Simone Biles needs little introduction. She’s a 7-time Olympic medalist, widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time. Beyond her athletic talent, Biles has been a voice for mental health advocacy and inclusive sports culture.
A Different Perspective
Unlike Gaines, Biles has shown support for diversity and inclusion, particularly within the Olympic and gymnastics communities. These differing views are at the heart of their feud.
The Origin of the Feud
What Sparked It All?
The feud began when Biles was nominated for a women’s sports award that Gaines and others claimed should have gone to an athlete who aligned with Gaines’ advocacy. Gaines publicly criticized Biles, stating it was a “slap in the face” to women fighting for fair competition.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The backlash was intense—and immediate. Supporters on both sides rushed to social media, turning a personal opinion into a nationwide debate. It dominated Twitter trends, podcast debates, and evening news panels.
Riley’s Surprising Change of Tone
“If She Was Willing” – A Conditional Offer
In a recent interview, Riley Gaines dropped a bombshell:
“I would absolutely be open to working with Simone Biles—if she was willing.”
That conditional statement marked a major shift in tone. Could this be a step toward dialogue rather than division?
What Collaboration Could Look Like
Finding Common Ground
Despite their ideological differences, both women champion causes they believe uplift female athletes. A partnership could potentially focus on:
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Mental health and performance pressures
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Gender equality in sports funding
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Training access for underprivileged athletes
Imagining the Possibilities
Imagine a joint campaign: “Empower Her,” led by both Gaines and Biles. It’s unlikely—but not impossible. Stranger things have happened in sports history.
The Barriers in the Way
Ideological Gaps
Let’s be real. These two athletes live on opposite ends of the cultural spectrum. Gaines supports legislation Biles might fiercely oppose. That’s a massive wall to scale.
Public Perception Pressure
Both women are in the public eye. Any collaboration would face immense scrutiny—from fans, media, and political commentators.
The Power of Open Dialogue
Why This Matters More Than Ever
In a polarized world, dialogue is rare and powerful. Even the possibility of Gaines and Biles working together sends a message:
We can disagree, passionately, and still talk. Still listen. Still try.
That’s a lesson far beyond the sports arena.
How the Internet Reacted
Mixed Emotions and Hot Takes
As expected, social media blew up. Some fans praised Gaines for “taking the high road,” while others called it “performative backtracking.”
On Biles’ side, many questioned whether she’d even respond—so far, she hasn’t.
What This Means for Women’s Sports
A Turning Point or Just Talk?
If Gaines and Biles do collaborate, it could represent a historic step toward bridging divides in women’s athletics. If not, it’s still a marker in time—a moment when at least one side extended a hand.
A Complex Intersection of Sports and Society
Sports used to be just about competition. Now, they’re at the crossroads of politics, gender, and values. And this feud-turned-olive-branch sits right at the center.
Could This Start a New Trend in Sports Discourse?
Maybe. If elite athletes start engaging in more open dialogue—even with rivals—we could see:
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More balanced public discussions
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Less tribalism
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Greater respect for nuance
That’s the dream, anyway.
What Comes Next?
The ball’s in Biles’ court. Will she respond? Will she ignore it? Or could this spark a broader movement of bridge-building in athletics?
Final Thoughts: A Step Toward Something Bigger
Whether you’re Team Gaines or Team Biles, one thing is clear: This story goes beyond sports. It’s about the courage to collaborate, even when the world is watching—and waiting—for a fight. Riley’s statement, “if she was willing,” may seem small. But it might just be the spark that lights a new path forward.
