Riley Gaines Announces Pregnancy Amid Feud with Simone Biles

FRANKFORT, Kentucky — Former swimmer Riley Gaines announced she is expecting her first child with husband Louis Barker during an event on June 14. The couple is set to welcome a baby girl in September. Gaines, 25, revealed the exciting news while addressing recent tensions with Olympic gymnast Simone Biles.

At the event, Gaines expressed her joy but also referenced the ongoing social media feud with Biles. Earlier this month, Biles publicly criticized Gaines for anti-transgender remarks regarding a transgender athlete. During her speech, Gaines quoted Biles, asking, ‘How many men do you know that have this?’ while gesturing to her baby bump, which earned cheers from attendees.

Later, the couple shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, showcasing maternity photos with their ultrasounds and a horse. ‘Surprise! We’re 26 weeks pregnant! God is SO good all the time,’ Gaines wrote in the caption.

In a follow-up message, Gaines echoed her excitement. ‘There’s something so special and providential about having a little girl. She’s everything I’ve been fighting for & the little girl we’ve prayed over for years, praise God!’ she added.

This announcement comes just days after the clash between Gaines and Biles ignited a larger conversation about the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports. The dispute began when Gaines commented on a Minnesota State High School League post celebrating a state championship win for a transgender athlete.

Biles responded, calling Gaines a ‘sore loser’ and urged her to support the transgender community instead of bullying. Although Biles later expressed regret for the heated exchange, the tensions between the two have persisted.

As the public debate continues, Gaines remains steadfast in her views, while Biles emphasizes the need for empathy within sports. The ongoing dialogue highlights the complexities surrounding gender identity and competitive sports.

Gaines’ pregnancy announcement, intertwined with this social media saga, illustrates how personal milestones can intersect with public controversies.