
If Riley Gaines had it to do over again, the All-American swimmer says she'd have never raced against Lia Thomas. It would've meant giving up everything she'd trained for - but some things, she's decided, are more important than titles. "I believe everything happened for a reason, but I wish I realized what a slippery slope this was when we were told to smile and step aside so a man could have our place at the podium," Riley insisted. "My actions would be different now, and I wouldn't compete. I know it's easier said than done, but sacrifices are necessary for the greater good."