**Riley Gaines Announces Pregnancy Amid Controversy in Sports**
Riley Gaines, a twelve-time NCAA All-American swimmer, and her husband Louis Barker are thrilled to announce they are expecting their first child, a baby girl, due in September. Gaines shared the joyful news on Instagram, revealing that they are currently 26 weeks pregnant and expressing her gratitude, stating, “God is SO good all the time.”
The couple, who married in 2022, recently celebrated their three-year wedding anniversary on May 22. Gaines has been a prominent advocate for female athletes, particularly in the ongoing debate surrounding transgender athletes’ participation in women’s sports. Recently, she engaged in a public dispute with seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles regarding a Minnesota softball team that won a state championship with the help of a transgender player.
In response to Gaines’ criticism of a social media post celebrating the championship team, Biles labeled her “truly sick” for her views on transgender athletes and even made personal remarks about Gaines’ appearance. Biles accused Gaines of being a “sore loser,” referencing her competition against former UPenn swimmer Lia Thomas at the 2022 NCAA championships. Biles suggested that instead of bullying, Gaines should support the transgender community and advocate for inclusivity in sports.
During a speech at Turning Point USA’s Young Women’s Leadership Summit in Texas, where she announced her pregnancy, Gaines addressed Biles’ body-shaming comments. She showcased her baby bump and shared sonograms, emphasizing the importance of fighting for the next generation of female athletes. Her husband, Barker, joined her on stage, expressing gratitude for the support and encouraging continued advocacy for fairness in sports.
Following the heated exchange, Biles later apologized to Gaines, clarifying that she does not support policies that undermine fairness in women’s sports. Gaines accepted the apology and extended an invitation to Biles to collaborate in promoting fair sports for female athletes.
As Gaines prepares for motherhood, her commitment to advocating for women’s sports remains steadfast, highlighting the ongoing discussions surrounding inclusivity and fairness in athletics.
**FAQ**
**What is Riley Gaines known for?**
Riley Gaines is a twelve-time NCAA All-American swimmer and a vocal advocate for female athletes, particularly in discussions about transgender participation in women’s sports.