In her own #MeToo statement on Twitter, American gymnast Simone Biles has accused her U.S. team doctor, Dr. Larry Nassar, of sexual assault.
Nassar has been accused of sexual misconduct by over 130 gymnasts that were in his care, including McKayla Maroney, Jamie Dantzcher, Aly Raisman and Jessica Howard.
Yesterday, the gold medalist penned an open letter, saying, 'I too am one of the many survivors that was sexually abused by Larry Nassar.'
She explained that she has experienced guilt and shame about the alleged abuse, and that is one of the reasons she has taken time to come forward with her claim.
It is not normal to receive any type of treatment from a trusted team physician and refer to it horrifyingly as the 'special' treatment. This behaviour is completely unacceptable, disgusting and abusive, especially coming from someone whom I was TOLD to trust.For too long I've asked myself, 'Was I too naive? Was it my fault?' I now know the answer to those questions. No. No, it was not my fault. No, I will not and should not carry the guilt that belongs to Larry Nassar, USAG, and others.
However she has come to realise that no fault lies with her, despite the difficulty of regularly returning to the training ground where the alleged abuse is said to have happened.
Last month Dr. Nassar, 54, was sentenced to 60 years in prison for a conviction related to child pornography and he is awaiting additional sentencing after having pleaded guilty to seven counts of molestation charges against girls. In a statement regarding these charges he said he prays, 'every day for forgiveness.'
Dr. Nassar's lawyers Matthew Newburg and Shannon Smith said: 'The agreement which was placed on the record today was reached after extensive negotiations with the prosecution and with significant input from Larry Nassar. This agreement resolves all the charged and uncharged conduct for more than 125 cases currently under investigation by the Michigan Attorney General's office.'
The U.S.A. Gymnastics (USAG) said in a statement, 'U.S.A. Gymnastics' support is unwavering for Simone and all athletes who courageously came forward to share their experiences. We are our athletes' advocates. U.S.A. Gymnastics will continue to listen to our athletes and our members in our efforts of creating a culture of empowerment with a relentless focus on athlete safety every single day.'
Daisy Murray is the Digital Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, spotlighting emerging designers, sustainable shopping, and celebrity style. Since joining in 2016 as an editorial intern, Daisy has run the gamut of fashion journalism - interviewing Molly Goddard backstage at London Fashion Week, investigating the power of androgynous dressing and celebrating the joys of vintage shopping.
