Olympic gymnastics legend Simone Biles is facing a tidal wave of backlash — and the cost may be her biggest brand deal yet. New Balance has reportedly cut ties with the decorated athlete after a heated exchange on social media, where Biles publicly criticized former NCAA swimmer and women’s rights advocate Riley Gaines. The fallout? A staggering $22 million endorsement deal now reportedly off the table.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The drama began when Riley Gaines, known for her outspoken views on protecting women’s sports, posted a tweet condemning the inclusion of biological males in female athletic competitions. Simone Biles, a longtime advocate for inclusion and diversity, fired back with a sharp response many are calling a “verbal body slam.”
Biles’ tweet, which read in part, “Real champions rise by lifting others — not by tearing them down for who they are,” quickly went viral. But rather than sparking a wave of applause, the Olympic hero found herself in hot water — accused by many fans and former supporters of “turning her back on biological women.”
New Balance Reacts Swiftly
Within days of the social media spat, rumors began circulating that New Balance, one of Biles’ top sponsors, was reevaluating their relationship with the gymnast. Late Sunday, sources close to the company confirmed the worst: the $22 million deal is done.
