Key Highlights
- MyKayla Skinner opens up about joining the “Save Women’s Sports” movement after a feud with Simone Biles.
- Skinner faced intense backlash and online attacks following controversial comments on her social media account.
- The experience led Skinner to become an advocate for protecting women’s sports, particularly regarding transgender inclusion.
- She launched a new ambassadorship with XX-XY Athletics to support the “Gold Medal Campaign” and spoke out in support of Riley Gaines during a feud with Simone Biles.
The Feud That Transformed MyKayla Skinner’s Advocacy
MyKayla Skinner, a former U.S. Olympic gymnast and silver medalist, recently opened up about her experiences following a public feud with fellow Olympian Simone Biles, which ultimately led her to join the “Save Women’s Sports” movement.
A Difficult Time for an Athlete
Skinner faced intense backlash from fans and even former teammates after posting controversial comments on social media about the 2024 U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics team in July of last year. The backlash was so severe that Skinner says it took her down a spiral, affecting both her personal life and her professional career.
From Depression to Advocacy
Describing the experience as “scary” and “devastating,” Skinner shared that she received death threats and felt pressured to stay silent. However, these experiences ultimately helped her find purpose in becoming an advocate for protecting women’s sports, particularly regarding transgender inclusion.
The New Front in Women’s Sports Advocacy
In June 2025, after Simone Biles got into another online feud with Riley Gaines over a transgender athlete controversy, Skinner spoke out in support of Gaines. This stance brought her new challenges and threats but also a renewed sense of purpose.
XX-XY Athletics Ambassadorship
To support the “Save Women’s Sports” movement, Skinner became an ambassador for XX-XY Athletics, launching their “Gold Medal Campaign.” The brand, founded by Jennifer Sey, is committed to promoting women’s sports and addressing issues related to transgender athletes.
Skinner’s Vision for a More Inclusive Future
While acknowledging the difficult journey ahead, Skinner remains hopeful. She believes that Biles may eventually join their cause, stating, “I believe she believes what she believes. I don’t think she’s on this side, at least, not yet, and I hope that she can turn over and join us.”
Skinner’s journey is emblematic of the ongoing debates in women’s sports about inclusion and integrity. As more high-profile athletes like Skinner take a stand, the conversation around these issues continues to evolve.
