MyKayla Skinner Breaks Silence on Olympic Feud, Calls for Unity and Support

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
06/08/2024 20h59

In a heartfelt video, former Team USA gymnast MyKayla Skinner has addressed the ongoing Olympic feud between herself and ex-teammate Simone Biles, appealing to Biles to use her platform to halt the wave of hateful comments and death threats directed towards Skinner and her family.

Taking to her Instagram, Skinner directly addressed Biles, pleading with her to ask her social media followers to stop the onslaught of negativity. Skinner acknowledged Biles' championing of mental health awareness and emphasized the need for her help in this crucial moment.

Skinner expressed the pain and hurt caused by the attacks, stressing that they were unintended consequences of the situation. She highlighted that the Olympic Games should be a time for support and unity among athletes and nations, urging everyone to lift each other up.

Demonstrating her commitment to reconciliation, Skinner revealed that she had personally apologized to each member of the Team USA gymnastics squad during the Olympics. Additionally, she announced her intention to take a break from social media, emphasizing the importance of self-care and mental well-being.

The feud between Skinner and Biles, both of whom competed alongside each other at the Tokyo Games in 2021, initially arose after Biles posted a social media caption seemingly aimed at Skinner, mentioning "lack of talent" and "lazy." Skinner had previously voiced her critique about the team's talent and work ethic.

With the U.S. women's gymnastics team securing a gold medal in the team finals at the Paris Games on July 30, it is crucial for the focus to now shift towards unity and support for all athletes. Skinner concluded her heartfelt message by expressing her love for her country and team, hoping for a collective effort to move forward and cheer on their teammates.

As the Olympics continue to captivate the world's attention, it is crucial to remember the values of sportsmanship and unity that these games symbolize. The call for support and understanding made by MyKayla Skinner serves as a reminder that even in the face of rivalry, compassion and solidarity are essential for the success and well-being of all athletes.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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