In her new post, Biles emphasized that she values both fairness and inclusion in athletics but admitted that the current system often struggles to uphold both principles effectively. She acknowledged that the debate around transgender participation in sports is deeply emotional and nuanced and expressed regret for the tone she initially took toward Gaines, saying it didn't help the conversation. Biles noted that while she doesn't claim to have the answers, she believes that dialogue should begin with empathy and mutual respect.
Biles clarified that her stance was not about endorsing policies that would compromise fairness in women's sports. Instead, she expressed concern about how individual transgender athletes—especially minors—are being publicly targeted. She argued that children should not bear the brunt of criticism for a system that is beyond their control and called for more compassionate and responsible discourse.
She went on to urge sports organizations to craft policies that protect both inclusion and competitive integrity, stating that all athletes deserve a future in sports that is fair and respectful. She ended her post with a hopeful note and signed off warmly, "Xoxo Simone."
The controversy began when Gaines commented on a post celebrating a Minnesota high school softball team's championship, referencing transgender pitcher Marissa Rothenberger with a dismissive remark. In response, Biles called out Gaines, suggesting she was using her platform to bully trans athletes instead of working toward more inclusive solutions. She even proposed the idea of a dedicated transgender category in sports as a way to foster inclusivity without compromising fairness.
Their clash reflects the broader national debate around transgender inclusion in athletics, a conversation intensified by political tensions and ongoing policy shifts in several states across the U.S.
