Former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines has found herself in the spotlight for her outspoken stance against the participation of transgender women in women’s sports. However, her views have drawn criticism from prominent sports and political commentator Keith Olbermann.
Olbermann took to social media last year to criticize Gaines, labeling her as “stupid” and “unsuccessful” among other derogatory remarks.
In response, Gaines highlighted her impressive athletic achievements, including multiple SEC awards, in a video and addressed Olbermann’s comments on a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience.
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“I very proudly finished my career as a 12-time All-American, a five-time SEC champion, the SEC record holder, SEC scholar athlete of the year, SEC community services leader of the year, I can keep going on, and it’s like, this senile old man wants to attack me? He still lives with his mom in her basement. I had to ask my dad, ‘Who is this guy?’ I don’t even know who he is,” Gaines said.
During her appearance on the podcast, Gaines expressed her disbelief at Olbermann’s attacks, questioning his credibility and suggesting that he still lives with his mother in her basement. She emphasized her successful career as a swimmer and questioned Olbermann’s qualifications to criticize her.
Olbermann has also labeled Gaines as a “transphobe” for her stance on transgender athletes, particularly in light of Lia Thomas’ historic win as the first openly transgender woman to secure an NCAA Division I national title in swimming. Gaines has been vocal about her belief that transgender athletes should not compete in women’s sports, sparking a contentious debate on the issue.
While Thomas has received support from organizations like the ACLU and advocates for transgender rights, Gaines has found backing from conservative outlets and leaders, including Florida governor Ron DeSantis. The clash between Gaines and Olbermann underscores the ongoing controversy surrounding transgender participation in sports and the differing perspectives on the matter.
