Controversial sports commentator Jason Whitlock has ignited anger after referring to Simone Biles as a ‘borderline midget’ during an offensive tirade on his recent podcast episode.
Whitlock, known for his polarizing views, also dismissed the notion that the USA gymnastics icon deserves to be recognized as an all-time great athlete, despite her historic achievements at this summer’s Olympic Games.
Biles became the most decorated American gymnast ever by claiming three gold medals and one silver in Paris, bringing her overall Olympic medal count to 11.
However, regardless of her stunning performances in the team, all-around, and vault events, Whitlock does not consider her one of the greatest of all time.
In the latest episode of his ‘Fearless’ show, the outspoken host asserted to boxing reporter Steve Kim that many Olympic viewers ‘don’t even comprehend gymnastics’ and that Biles shouldn’t be labeled as great for that reason.
Jason Whitlock (left) has sparked outrage after branding Simone Biles a ‘borderline midget’ in an offensive rant
He began by showing a picture of the 27-year-old on influencer Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast, stating: ‘Simone Biles’ feet don’t reach the floor. That’s borderline midget.’
‘And we keep proclaiming, “Oh my god, she’s the greatest of all time, she’s the greatest athlete ever.”
‘Most of us don’t grasp gymnastics, we don’t understand how it’s judged, or what constitutes good or bad. Yet every four years, we all act like, “Oh my god, what an incredible athlete! She’s the best, she’s the Jesse Owens [of gymnastics], she’s like Serena Williams, she’s Michael Jordan.”
Kim, however, countered Whitlock’s claims, arguing that gymnasts certainly deserve a place in discussions about the greatest athletes of all time.
‘When examining lists that identify the greatest athletes globally, I believe gymnasts and decathletes rank among the top,’ he responded.
Whitlock mocked Biles over her size after pulling up a photo of her on Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast
He also rubbished claims that she’s an all-time great despite her record-breaking success at this summer’s Olympic Games
‘They don’t participate in major sports that capture our attention, but the skills they exhibit—soaring through the air, executing flips, and their fast-twitch abilities—are remarkable.’
‘I understand she isn’t as big as [basketball legend] Kevin Garnett. But often, smaller athletes excel in these domains.’
Whitlock then added disparagingly: ‘She’s not as large as Kevin Garnett’s thigh.’
The conservative commentator has faced significant backlash for ridiculing Biles over her stature, with fans criticizing him after he shared a clip of his tirade on social media.
One sarcastic comment read: ‘Wow! You’re criticizing Simone Biles for being short?! True class, Whitlock. I’d love to see you tackle that vault.’
Another user suggested he was following a script on the podcast, stating: ‘If you had any self-awareness or self-respect, you wouldn’t have done this when it was handed to you.’
‘But they know you have no shame, no opportunities, and no one who cares enough about you to guide you away from this behavior.’
Fans took issue with Whitlock’s comments about Biles, with one branding him ‘jealous’
A third commenter remarked: ‘She is the most decorated gymnast ever. Doesn’t that qualify her as the GOAT? With 11 Olympic medals and 32 world championships.’
A fourth expressed frustration, stating: ‘You are undeniably foolish; what have you done that’s noteworthy? Jealousy because she has an audience, fans, and undeniable talent, even as a petite woman. What’s your justification?’
And one simply joked: ‘Let’s see you accomplish what she does, Jason. Give that balance beam a shot.’
