Larry Nassar’s Attorney Critiques USA Gymnastics’ Handling of Trans Athlete Policy Amid Ongoing Controversy

Larry Nassar’s Attorney Critiques USA Gymnastics’ Handling of Trans Athlete Policy Amid Ongoing Controversy

The sexual abuse scandal involving Larry Nassar has reignited conversations surrounding the handling of sensitive athlete issues, particularly in the context of USA Gymnastics and its policies regarding transgender athletes. This intense scrutiny follows recent comments made by prominent gymnast Simone Biles, who defended the inclusion of trans athletes in women’s sports, and her engagement in a public feud with athlete Riley Gaines. Critics of Biles’ stance have referenced the Nassar abuse scandal while voicing their opinions.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson for USA Gymnastics revealed that the organization removed its transgender eligibility policy and related resources from its website in May. This decision was made to evaluate the organization’s compliance with evolving legal standards.

Attorney John Manly’s Perspective on Trans Inclusion

John Manly, the lead attorney representing the U.S. women gymnasts who were victims of Nassar, offered his insights on the similarities between the Nassar scandal and the USA Gymnastics’ approach to trans athletes in women’s categories. He emphasized that the conditions leading to abuse cases are often rooted in the policies, or lack thereof, of the governing bodies.

“Larry Nassar was sexually assaulting children, and that’s fundamentally different,” Manly stated, underscoring the serious nature of Nassar’s offenses. However, he also pointed out that the current leadership at USA Gymnastics may lack the oversight necessary to shield female athletes from potential risks posed by trans inclusion.

“I think that’s precisely right,” Manly continued. “[Female gymnasts] find themselves in a predicament with a trans athlete in the locker room due to the policies set by the organizations. Conversely, Larry Nassar thrived in an environment unregulated by effective policies that prevented his actions. He was treating young girls alone in their hotel rooms, without any safeguard in place.”

Financial Incentives Over Athlete Welfare?

Moreover, Manly expressed his concern that the motivations for decisions made by the USA Gymnastics organization prioritize financial gain and accolades over the well-being of athletes. He stated, “Athletes are not first in this system; they are not. Money and medals take precedence, and the leadership remains self-serving.”

In February, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” aimed specifically at institutions receiving federal funding. However, this order does not extend to USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), as both are private entities.

Questioning USA Gymnastics’ Justifications

As a seasoned lawyer, Manly criticized USA Gymnastics’ justification for removing its policy pages, alleging that it reflects a deficiency in accountability. “That’s a bunch of nonsense,” he remarked. “It’s corporate speak for ‘we’re worried about shifting political winds and public opinion,’ as though they fear becoming the target of backlash akin to what Bud Light faced.”

He further added, “The reasons behind the Larry Nassar horrors were twofold: a lack of athlete-first policies and a system that attempted to cover up those failures. This situation mirrors the current failure to decisively engage with the issue of inclusion for trans athletes.”

Understanding the Complexity of the Issue

While vocal about his concerns regarding policy, Manly does not lay blame solely on the trans athletes, particularly underage competitors. He noted that Biles’ recent comments may have been misinterpreted. Referring to Biles, he said, “I think it’s a misunderstanding. I suspect Simone was trying to articulate that child athletes should not bear the burden of blame for competing under policies that organizations create. However, I cannot speak for her directly.”

Reflecting on his past representation of Biles and other gymnasts, Manly was instrumental in securing a settlement of $380 million from USA Gymnastics and USOPC for the abuses they suffered at the hands of Nassar.

Future Legal Implications and Women’s Sports

Manly has since become keenly aware of how the ongoing legal debates surrounding athlete inclusion may alter women’s sports. He commented on the significance of Riley Gaines’ lawsuit against the NCAA over the participation of biological male Lia Thomas in the women’s championship. He said, “How this case unfolds will shape the future of women’s sports, determining whether the status quo remains or undergoes significant change.”

Moreover, he expressed shock over the NCAA’s failure to reach an agreement with Gaines, highlighting a broader need for organizations to take responsibility for safeguarding female athletes’ interests.

A Call for Action from USOPC

Manly has indicated that he would be open to filing lawsuits against the USOPC, should any American Olympians approach him with legitimate concerns. “I’m prepared to advocate for women and female athletes. That being said, it should not fall on individual attorneys to take this action; the USOPC should proactively ensure the protection of their athletes and establish clear policies,” he asserted.

While harboring hopes that policy clarity will emerge before the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, Manly conveyed skepticism regarding the current leadership’s commitment to this goal. “My confidence is low regarding significant changes from this board,” he concluded.

Stay updated with the latest news on women’s sports and related legal issues as they continue to unfold.