Riley Gaines is having a baby – and she didn’t miss the chance to take a shot at Simone Biles while announcing it. The former NCAA swimmer turned conservative activist revealed she’s 26 weeks pregnant with her first child, a baby girl, during a public event on Saturday, June 14. Standing in front of a supportive crowd, Gaines recalled the moment she read Biles’ fiery comment calling her “truly sick” for targeting transgender athletes. Then, referencing Biles’ now-viral insult – “Bully someone your own size, which would ironically be a male” – Gaines delivered a not-so-subtle comeback: “How many men do you know that have this?” she asked, unveiling her baby bump to roaring applause.
In a dramatic twist that has captivated both the sports and political arenas, former NCAA swimmer and conservative activist Riley Gaines recently announced her pregnancy during a public event. The revelation, however, was not just a personal milestone but also a pointed jab at Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, reigniting their ongoing feud over the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports.
The Genesis of the Feud
The tension between Gaines and Biles began when Gaines criticized a Minnesota high school softball team for featuring a transgender player, referring to the athlete as a “boy.” Biles responded by calling Gaines a “sore loser” and a “bully,” suggesting that Gaines was using her platform to attack the transgender community. This exchange sparked a heated debate about fairness and inclusivity in women’s sports.
Riley Gaines’ Pregnancy Announcement
On June 14, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event in Texas, Gaines revealed that she and her husband, Louis Barker, are expecting their first child—a baby girl due in September. She proudly displayed her baby bump and shared ultrasound images, expressing gratitude and excitement for the new addition to their family.
The Jab at Simone Biles
In a move that many interpreted as a direct response to Biles’ previous comments, Gaines included a pointed remark during her pregnancy reveal. She referenced Biles’ earlier suggestion to “bully someone your own size, which would ironically be a male,” and used this as a backdrop for her announcement. This comment reignited the feud and brought the debate over transgender inclusion in sports back into the spotlight.
The Debate: Fairness vs. Inclusivity
At the heart of this controversy lies a broader debate about the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports. Gaines argues that allowing transgender women to compete in female categories undermines fairness and puts cisgender women at a disadvantage. On the other hand, Biles advocates for inclusivity, suggesting the creation of separate categories for transgender athletes to ensure fair competition.
Public Opinion on Transgender Athletes in Sports
Public opinion on this issue is deeply divided. Recent polls indicate that a significant portion of the population supports maintaining sex-based teams, while others believe in creating inclusive opportunities for transgender athletes. This divide underscores the complexity of the issue and the challenges in finding a solution that satisfies all parties involved.
Media Coverage and Public Reactions
The media’s portrayal of this feud has varied, with some outlets focusing on the personal aspects of the conflict, while others delve into the political implications. Public reactions have been equally mixed, with some supporting Gaines’ stance on fairness and others backing Biles’ call for inclusivity. This dichotomy reflects the broader societal debate on transgender rights and women’s sports.
The Role of Social Media in Amplifying the Feud
Social media platforms have played a significant role in amplifying this feud. Both Gaines and Biles have used their platforms to voice their opinions, leading to widespread discussions and debates among their followers. The viral nature of their exchanges has brought the issue to the forefront of public consciousness, making it a topic of national conversation.
Political Implications and Legislative Actions
This feud also has political implications, with lawmakers introducing bills that either support or oppose the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports. These legislative actions reflect the polarized views on the issue and the influence of public figures like Gaines and Biles in shaping public policy.
Looking Ahead: Potential Resolutions
As the debate continues, potential resolutions include the creation of separate categories for transgender athletes or the implementation of policies that ensure fair competition without compromising inclusivity. Finding a balance between fairness and inclusivity remains a challenge, but it is essential for the future of women’s sports.
Conclusion
The ongoing feud between Riley Gaines and Simone Biles highlights the complex and contentious issue of transgender inclusion in women’s sports. While both individuals have passionately advocated for their respective positions, the broader conversation continues to evolve. As society grapples with these issues, it is crucial to engage in respectful dialogue and seek solutions that uphold the principles of fairness and inclusivity.
