USA Gymnastics (USAG) has sparked widespread discussion by removing its transgender eligibility guidelines from its website and announcing a review of its gender policies. This move comes amid a heated public debate, intensified by a social media clash between Olympic champion Simone Biles and former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines. In this article, we explore the reasons behind USAG’s policy reassessment, the broader context of transgender inclusion in sports, and what this could mean for gymnastics as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics approach.
Why Did USA Gymnastics Remove Its Transgender Policy Pages?
In May 2025, USA Gymnastics quietly deleted several webpages outlining its transgender eligibility rules, prompting questions from fans, athletes, and advocacy groups. According to a statement provided to Fox News, the organization removed these pages to “assess compliance with the current legal landscape.” This decision aligns with a broader wave of policy changes across U.S. sports governing bodies, driven by evolving legislation and public sentiment.
Previously, USAG’s policies, as archived in November 2020, allowed transgender athletes to compete in their chosen gender category without requiring sex reassignment, legal gender recognition, or hormone therapy. The removal of these guidelines suggests a potential shift toward stricter regulations, though no new policy has been finalized.
Key Factors Driving the Policy Review
- Legal Changes: A February 2025 executive order signed by President Donald Trump aims to restrict transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports, prompting sports organizations to reevaluate their rules.
- Public Debate: The Simone Biles-Riley Gaines feud has spotlighted transgender inclusion, with Gaines advocating for biological sex-based categories and Biles defending trans athletes’ rights.
- Federal Scrutiny: USA Fencing faced federal intervention after allowing transgender athletes in women’s categories, setting a precedent for other sports bodies like USAG.
The Simone Biles and Riley Gaines Feud: A Catalyst for Change?
The public feud between Simone Biles and Riley Gaines has amplified the transgender policy debate. Biles, a gymnastics icon and Olympic gold medalist, faced criticism after expressing support for transgender athletes on social media. In contrast, Gaines, a vocal advocate for women’s sports fairness, argues that biological males have physical advantages that undermine competition integrity. Their clash has drawn significant attention, with posts on X reflecting polarized fan sentiments.
This controversy has put pressure on USAG to clarify its stance. As noted by former Team USA gymnast Dee Worley in a CBS Sports interview, the organization’s handling of the issue has been criticized for lacking transparency. Worley emphasized the need for clear, fair policies that balance inclusion with competitive fairness.
Transgender Policies in Other Sports: A Broader Trend
USA Gymnastics is not alone in revisiting its transgender policies. Several Team USA sports governing bodies have recently amended their guidelines amid growing opposition to transgender inclusion in women’s categories. For example:
- USA Fencing: In April 2025, USA Fencing announced plans to restrict women’s categories to biological females, following a protest by fencer Stephanie Turner against a transgender opponent.
- USA Track & Field: USATF updated its policy to align with World Athletics, which bans athletes who have undergone male puberty from women’s events.
- International Olympic Committee (IOC): The IOC’s more permissive stance, allowing biological males in women’s categories, contrasts with World Athletics’ stricter rules, creating confusion for national bodies.
These changes reflect a broader shift toward policies based on biological sex, driven by legal pressures and public advocacy. A Forbes analysis suggests that sports organizations are navigating a complex landscape of fairness, inclusion, and compliance.
Implications for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, USAG’s policy review could reshape Team USA’s gymnastics program. A stricter policy might align with World Athletics’ guidelines, potentially limiting transgender participation in women’s events. Conversely, maintaining inclusive policies could spark further controversy, as seen in USA Fencing’s federal scrutiny.
The outcome will likely influence athlete recruitment, training, and competition dynamics, as well as public perception of gymnastics as an inclusive sport. Fans and athletes are watching closely, with many expressing their views on platforms like X.
Balancing Inclusion and Fairness: The Challenge Ahead
USA Gymnastics faces a delicate task: crafting a policy that respects transgender athletes while addressing concerns about competitive fairness. The organization’s silence since May 2025 has fueled speculation, with some fans on X calling for a transparent process.
Experts suggest that USAG could adopt a hybrid approach, such as open categories for all athletes alongside sex-based divisions, as proposed in a New York Times article on sports equity. This model could mitigate legal risks while promoting inclusion, though it may not satisfy all stakeholders.
USA Gymnastics’ decision to reassess its transgender policy marks a pivotal moment for the sport. Driven by legal changes, public debate, and the Simone Biles-Riley Gaines feud, this review could redefine competition rules ahead of the 2028 Olympics. As USAG navigates this complex issue, transparency and fairness will be key to maintaining trust among athletes and fans. Stay updated on this evolving story through USA Gymnastics’ official site and reputable sports news outlets.
