Simone Biles has responded to criticism aimed at current gymnasts by former teammate MyKayla Skinner. After winning gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Biles took to Instagram to address comments made by Skinner, who had previously suggested that modern gymnasts lack the work ethic and talent compared to the past.
Biles shared celebratory photos with her teammates, making a statement about the alleged lack of effort and talent in contemporary gymnastics.
MyKayla Skinner, who competed with Biles at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, had sparked controversy with her remarks about the current state of U.S. gymnastics. In a now-deleted YouTube video, Skinner criticized the perceived decline in talent and work ethic among gymnasts, attributing it partly to changes in coaching practices and the influence of the U.S. Center for SafeSport.
She felt that the emphasis on athlete safety had led to a lack of intensity and aggression necessary for success in the sport.
Following the backlash from her video, Skinner apologized, stating that her comments were misunderstood or misinterpreted. In her apology, she clarified that her remarks were not intended to disrespect the current team or undermine their achievements. Skinner expressed her support and pride in the athletes who made the team and acknowledged their hard work and dedication.
Simone Biles’s Instagram post, where she highlighted her team’s accomplishments and implied that criticism of current gymnasts was unfounded, can be seen as a direct rebuttal to Skinner’s claims. By showcasing her team’s gold medal victory and celebrating their success, Biles emphasized the dedication and talent present in today’s gymnasts.
Skinner’s apology and Biles’s response reflect a broader conversation about the evolution of gymnastics and the challenges faced by athletes in a changing environment. Both gymnasts’ statements highlight the complexities of maintaining high standards in a sport that is increasingly aware of athlete welfare and the need for supportive coaching practices.
