The #MeToo movement made a significant impact on the sports industry in 2018. The voices of women were finally heard and acknowledged alongside the achievements of female athletes, prompting a powerful shift. Tennis icon Serena Williams emphasized the importance of women taking charge, stating, “Female athletes are asserting control, and that’s a pivotal aspect.” The sentencing of Larry Nassar to 40 to 175 years in prison marked a crucial and startling development in this ongoing issue.
Michigan State University settled lawsuits with Nassar’s victims for $500 million. The university’s president faced termination and allegations of dishonesty with law enforcement. USA Gymnastics also faced repercussions, casting a shadow on its future. Jordyn Wieber, a member of the gold-medal-winning 2012 Olympic gymnastics team, bravely came forward with allegations against Nassar by filing a complaint.
Witnessing other victims share their harrowing experiences in a public courtroom with their abuser just feet away and cameras broadcasting the ordeal globally, Wieber felt compelled to speak out. Reflecting on the impact, the 23-year-old Olympian expressed to The Associated Press, “I recognized the influence and power we as Olympians possess by raising our voices. I felt a sense of duty to act. It was a daunting task, but I believed it was worthwhile.” These courageous young women played a pivotal role in holding USA Gymnastics and other entities accountable for enabling Nassar’s abuse to persist unchecked for years.
As USA Gymnastics continued to use the Karolyi Ranch training center in Texas despite reports of mistreatment by Nassar, reigning Olympic champion and Nassar survivor Simone Biles publicly questioned this decision on Twitter. The organization abruptly announced its departure from the facility shortly thereafter.
