In a dramatic twist to a high-profile social media clash, Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in Olympic history, has deactivated her X (formerly Twitter) account following an intense feud with former NCAA swimmer and women’s sports activist Riley Gaines.
The spark
It all ignited in early June, when Gaines criticized Champlin Park High School in Minnesota for featuring a transgender athlete—a girl born male—in their state championship-winning softball team. Gaines’s post read, “To be expected when your star player is a boy”, which Biles—an outspoken advocate—saw as public shaming and bullying. Biles responded with fire, tweeting that Gaines was “truly sick… straight up a sore loser”, referencing a tie with trans swimmer Lia Thomas in 2022. She added: “Bully someone your own size, which would ironically be a male.”
Backlash and apology
Immediate backlash followed. Critics argued Biles had veered into body shaming and personal attacks. Within days, Biles issued a public apology: she acknowledged she had let emotion override empathy and emphasised her goal was not to politicise trans participation, but to defend kids—especially trans kids—from being singled out unfairly.
The exit from X
Then, quietly yet decisively, her X account disappeared. TMZ reported the deletion came shortly after the conflict escalated—Gaines even suggested it was a reaction to overwhelming ridicule. Gaines confirmed the move on X, saying: “Sad to see such a phenom go down like this”. Though Biles retains her presence on Instagram and Threads, her departure from X marks a rare retreat into silence.
Reflection and resilience
On Instagram, Biles posted a cryptic story: “Strength is what we gain from the madness we survive.” It’s a quiet testament to how public pressure and personal missteps can become crucibles for growth.
What it all means
This episode underscores three truths:
1. Public figures walk a tightrope
Biles was intent on defending trans youth, but her personal barbs eclipsed the message, drawing criticism even from her own support base.
2. Social media can fuel both empowerment and collapse
It allowed Biles to weigh in on a divisive issue—but also forced her into a defensive stance and ultimately off the platform.
3. Personal reflection over public posturing
Her apology and Instagram post suggest Biles is turning inward, seeking strength from adversity more than external validation.
Final threads
Simone Biles’s fall—and subtle comeback—speaks volumes about the complexity of today’s cultural battlefield. When even an Olympic champion is accused of crossing a line, it reminds us how nuanced conversations about fairness, identity, and respect have become. Her deactivation of X is not just a retreat—it’s a recalibration. The cryptic message hints at hard-earned wisdom: maybe the most powerful statement is silence.
In a digital age where opinions fly faster than Olympic flips, even the most celebrated athletes aren’t immune to social media battles. Simone Biles — the most decorated gymnast in history — has made headlines not for her flips, but for flipping off X (formerly Twitter). The trigger? A fiery feud with former NCAA swimmer and conservative activist Riley Gaines.
Let’s unpack what really happened, why it exploded online, and what this says about fame, opinion, and the battleground of social media.
The Simone Biles vs. Riley Gaines Showdown
Who Is Riley Gaines and Why Does Her Name Matter Now?
If you’re not familiar, Riley Gaines rose to prominence not just for her collegiate swimming achievements, but for her outspoken stance on women’s sports — especially regarding transgender athletes competing in female categories.
She’s gained a considerable platform among conservative circles and isn’t shy about voicing polarizing opinions.
What Sparked the Feud Between Biles and Gaines?
It all started with a comment Biles made in support of inclusion in sports. While Biles didn’t mention anyone by name, Gaines took it as a direct shot. What followed was a back-and-forth exchange filled with sharp words, reposts, and tens of thousands of reactions.
The Viral Tweet That Lit the Match
Riley Gaines tweeted:
“When Olympic legends like Simone Biles side with erasing biological women from sports, you know we have a problem.”
Biles, known for mostly staying neutral online, clapped back with:
“Respect is earned — and you just lost mine.”
Simone’s Sudden Exit From X
Biles deactivated her X account shortly after the feud gained viral attention. Fans and critics were shocked. One moment she was defending her beliefs, the next — gone.
Tired of the Noise?
Let’s be real — social media can be a war zone. Even a legend like Biles isn’t immune to the mental toll. She’s spoken out before about prioritizing mental health. This latest drama? Just another layer to the stress cake.
Mental Health and the Cost of Being Vocal
Biles’ History of Protecting Her Peace
Remember when Simone stepped back from the Tokyo Olympics for mental health reasons? That was groundbreaking. She redefined what strength means in sports. Her retreat from X is just another version of that same move — choosing peace over popularity.
Social Media Isn’t Safe for Everyone
When debates escalate into personal attacks, even the strongest athletes need an off-ramp. It’s one thing to stand up for beliefs, but another to absorb constant hate.
The Bigger Picture — Are Athletes Targets Now?
Everyone Has an Opinion, but At What Cost?
Athletes today aren’t just performers; they’re role models, activists, and walking brands. But being vocal comes at a price — especially for women and people of color like Biles.
Double Standards in Sports Commentary
Let’s be blunt. Male athletes often get a pass for political or social opinions. Women? They’re either “too emotional” or “out of line.” Biles calling out Gaines? Suddenly, she’s a villain in some corners of the internet.
What People Are Saying Online
Team Biles vs. Team Gaines
X exploded with hashtags like #StandWithSimone and #SaveWomenSports. The internet quickly took sides — some praising Biles for standing up, others blasting her for not “protecting women’s sports.”
Influencers, Celebs, and Sports Fans Weigh In
From fellow Olympians to talk show hosts, everyone chimed in. Some urged for more respectful discourse, while others fueled the fire.
Biles Speaks — Her Last Words Before Deactivating
Before leaving X, Biles posted:
“I’ve learned it’s better to walk away than to waste breath on those who refuse to listen.”
A mic drop moment if there ever was one.
Why Simone Biles’ Exit Matters
A Symbol of Boundaries
Simone isn’t just walking away from a feud — she’s setting an example. That it’s okay to log off. That protecting your mental well-being matters more than online points.
The Line Between Accountability and Harassment
There’s a difference between disagreeing with someone and sending death threats. Unfortunately, public figures like Biles often get both in the same breath.
The Takeaway — Respect, Dialogue, and Digital Detox
We Need to Talk, Not Tear Down
This feud didn’t just involve two athletes. It exposed a deeper issue — how we handle disagreement online. It’s okay to hold different values. What’s not okay? Turning disagreements into digital warfare.
That’s the million-dollar question. Until we learn to listen more and shout less, we’ll keep losing voices like Simone’s.
Final Thoughts: Simone Biles Took a Stand — By Logging Off
Simone Biles may have exited X, but her message is louder than ever. Sometimes, stepping back is the boldest move. Whether you agree with her or not, her choice reminds us all of the power — and danger — of the digital stage.
