The “Back in My Day” Mentality: MyKayla Skinner’s Criticism of Today’s Gymnasts

MyKayla Skinner, a retired gymnast and silver medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, recently came under fire for criticizing the current gymnasts on Team USA’s 2024 Olympics squad, excluding Simone Biles. In a since-deleted two-hour YouTube livestream, Skinner, 27, expressed her belief that the talent and work ethic of the current gymnasts do not measure up to previous generations.

Skinner’s comments sparked backlash on social media, with many accusing her of being out of touch and insensitive. She attempted to clarify her remarks, attributing her perspective to the abusive coaching methods she experienced under legendary U.S. Olympic coach Marta Karolyi. Skinner acknowledged that her judgment was clouded by her past experiences and apologized for her hurtful comments.

In contrast, Simone Biles, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, responded to the controversy with a subtle but pointed message on Instagram, emphasizing the importance of humility and restraint. Biles has been a vocal advocate for mental health and victims of sexual abuse, using her platform to raise awareness and support fellow athletes.

The incident serves as a reminder of the evolving attitudes towards coaching methods and athlete well-being in sports. While the “old school” mentality of tough love and discipline was once prevalent, there is now a greater emphasis on creating a safe and supportive environment for athletes to thrive. MyKayla Skinner’s misstep highlights the importance of reflecting on past experiences and recognizing the impact of trauma on one’s perspective.