Riley Gaines Encourages Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles to Join the Fight Against Transgender Athletes in Women’s Sports

Riley Gaines Encourages Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles to Join the Fight Against Transgender Athletes in Women’s Sports

The ongoing debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports continues to gain traction among the American public, lawmakers, and niche markets. Prominent voices in this movement are now calling on star athletes to lend their support.

Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and influential figure advocating against transgender participation in women’s sports, has emerged as a leading personality in this debate. Gaines’ journey into this advocacy began with her controversial tie with transgender swimmer Lia Thomas during the 2022 NCAA championships. Recently, in 2024, she became the first brand ambassador for XX-XY Athletics, a sportswear brand dedicated to activism against transgender inclusion.

XX-XY Athletics has carved a niche in the market by promoting activism related to this heated issue while financially incentivizing female college athletes to stand against it. By partnering with athletes, the brand offers them a platform to express their opinions and contribute to a larger movement.

During an exclusive interview with a news outlet, Gaines highlighted her desire to see more prominent figures back the movement, specifically mentioning Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles as ideal advocates.

Gaines stated, “People who are critical to this movement include icons like Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles. These women have broken barriers and serve as role models for young girls across America. Their voices would be crucial in advancing this cause.” She believes that if these renowned athletes explicitly voice their opposition to transgender participation in women’s sports, it could dramatically influence public opinion.

While these names may seem ambitious, Gaines feels a cultural shift toward protecting women’s sports is within reach. She argues that an increasing number of Americans are coming to support the idea of separate categories based on biological sex.

Jennifer Sey’s Perspective

Jennifer Sey, founder of XX-XY Athletics and a former U.S. gymnast, echoed Gaines’ sentiment in a statement. Sey affirmed the brand’s commitment to welcoming more female athletes willing to advocate for the integrity of women’s sports. “We are always encouraging more female athletes to join the fight,” Sey noted, adding that strong collective voices can reshape the landscape of women’s sports.

Sey has openly discussed the brand’s financial success, revealing that it surpassed seven-figure profits in its first ten months. Despite this success, she has voiced a need for a high-profile female athlete to take on the role of brand ambassador. She lamented, “There isn’t currently a top-tier competitive female athlete or coach that has firmly stood up for the protection of women’s sports.” This indicates a pressing gap that Sey believes needs addressing.

Public Opinion on Transgender Athletes

A recent survey conducted by The New York Times and Ipsos has reflected a significant public consensus against transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. The survey revealed that 79% of participants overall, including a substantial 67% of those identifying as Democrats, believe transgender women should not participate in women’s sports.

Further supporting this sentiment, a Gallup poll indicated that nearly 70% of Americans oppose allowing biological men to compete in women’s categories. Additionally, a survey from NORC at the University of Chicago highlighted similar concerns, with 69% of respondents opposing the participation of adult transgender women in women’s sports.

The Risks Involved in Advocacy

The movement advocating for the separation of transgender athletes from women’s sports carries inherent risks for those involved. Some athletes, like Brooke Slusser, a former co-captain of the San Jose State University women’s volleyball team who is now affiliated with XX-XY Athletics, have faced severe backlash for their beliefs. Slusser recounted receiving threats and harassment, leading to her decision to leave campus.

Similarly, Melissa Batie-Smoose, a former assistant coach at San Jose State University, has reported being targeted after her vocal opposition to the school’s treatment of transgender athletes. She experienced vandalism at her home, illustrating the potential dangers athletes face when challenging the status quo.

In light of this, Gaines acknowledged the increasing tensions surrounding this issue, stating, “It’s unsettling to witness the extent of hostility directed at those who advocate for women’s sports rights. Yet, the fear some may feel does not hold the power it once did.”

A Call to Action for Women Athletes

As the conversation about transgender athletes in women’s sports evolves, athletes, brands, and sports organizations find themselves at a critical crossroads. The landscape requires decisive action from prominent figures like Clark and Biles, whose involvement could lend significant credibility and visibility to this growing movement.

Gaines emphasized the ongoing discussions with influential female athletes, including Olympians, signaling a hopeful future where more voices may rise in support of protecting women’s sports. “Conversations are in progress with many incredible athletes,” she noted, expressing optimism about future collaborations.

In closing, the future of women’s sports may depend on the actions and voices of those at its forefront. As the public sentiment appears to be shifting toward supporting this cause, the encouragement of iconic figures in the sports community may catalyze greater change. With rising support, a more unified front could emerge, shaping the future landscape of women’s athletics.