The “Call Her Daddy” podcast featuring Simone Biles has sparked renewed interest in the gymnastics icon’s journey to her fourth Olympics this year.

On this show, a moment stood out when Biles opened up to host Alex Cooper about her decision to withdraw from the  2021 Tokyo Olympics due to the infamous “Twisties.” Biles said, “As soon as I landed, I was like, “Oh, America hates me. The world is gonna hate me,” and admitted that the backlash she faced after her withdrawal, including being labeled a “quitter,” deeply affected her.

Yet, just as Biles is gearing up for redemption this year, a controversial comparison made by sports commentator Jason Whitlock between Simone Biles and WNBA star Caitlin Clark has ignited fury within the gymnastics community, with many seeing it as an attack on the gymnastics GOAT.

Jason Whitlock compares Simone Biles and Caitlin Clark

On April 19, 2024, Jason Whitlock, the American sports columnist, podcaster, and former football player, stirred controversy with his comments on Simone Biles during his podcast “Extra Fearless with Jason Whitlock.” Whitlock shared a snippet of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, where Biles discussed her perception of the public after withdrawing from most of the final events at the Tokyo Olympics.

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In response to Biles’ revelation, Whitlock dismissed her reputation by comparing her to Caitlin Clark, and stated, “Simone Biles is pretending like she’s Caitlin Clark and that people actually know who she is.” Whitlock argued that Biles and other gymnasts build up their importance but are not significant in the grand scheme of things.

He went on to say, “Most people, they just know, ‘Hey, that’s the girl who quit in the Olympics, and yeah, I think she’s won a bunch of gold medals or whatever.’” He further added, “She didn’t cut through the way when Caitlin Clark goes anywhere; people recognize her. That’s not the same for Simone Biles.” However, Whitlock’s comments did not sit well with the millions of fans of the gymnastics GOAT around the world.

How the gym-ternet held him accountable for his word attack

Simone Biles, with 37 World and Olympic medals, holds the title of the most decorated gymnast in history. Her 2023 achievement of winning her eighth national title broke a record that had stood since 1933, further proving her dominance in the sport nationally and globally. With such an impressive list of accolades to her name, fans were quick to shun Jason Whitlock for his dismissive comments. One fan highlighted Biles’ achievements, emphasizing her medal count and said,

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Another fan reminded Whitlock of Biles’ accomplishments, mentioning

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Another fan pointed out the difference between Biles and Clark, noting that Biles has been relevant and accomplished much earlier in her career and saying,

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A fan criticized Whitlock, accusing him of jealousy and stating that Biles was famous long before saying,

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Another commenter simply teased,

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One more fan pointed out Biles’ global status and criticised Jason Whitlock saying,

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Amid the heated discussion, Jason Whitlock has ignited a storm of criticism, but Simone Biles’ status as a legendary athlete speaks for itself. What are your thoughts about his comments? Comment below!