‘The entire principle of this should be fought’
Disgraced Team USA doctor Larry Nassar has been sentenced to 60 years in prison for child pornography, with over 140 girls and women coming forward to accuse the national team physician of abuse.
Among the alleged victims are Simone Biles and McKayla Maroney.
Despite claiming to have been sexually assaulted by Nassar, it was revealed earlier this week that McKayla Maroney wouldn’t be able to speak publicly about the incident, due to a non disclosure agreement she was made to sign by USA gymnastics as part of her $1.25 million settlement in 2016.
If she did, she would face a $100k fine.
Understandably this cause global outrage, with high profile figures leaping to the 22-year-old’s defence.
Never one to be silenced or allow the silencing of others, model Chrissy Teigen was quick to come up with a solution, offering to pay the fine in order for the Olympian to speak out about what she went through.
’The entire principle of this should be fought - an NDA to stay quiet about this serial monster with over 140 accusers,’ she posted to her Twitter page. ‘But I would be absolutely honoured to pay this fine for you, McKayla.’
And Chrissy wasn’t the only high profile figure to get behind the athlete, with producer Michael Schur and actress Kristen Bell offering to divide the fine between them.
‘I’ll split it with you’ Schur tweeted Chrissy, before Kristen added, ‘I’ll 1/3 it with you guys.’
USA Gymnastics has since gone back on its decision, confirming that McKayla Maroney will not be fined if she speaks out about her alleged abuse.
USA Gymnastics released the following statement: ’USA Gymnastics has not sought and will not seek any money from McKayla Maroney for her brave statements made in describing her victimisation and abuse by Larry Nassar, nor for any victim impact statements she wants to make to Larry Nassar at this hearing or at any subsequent hearings related to his sentencing.’
‘This has been her right and USA Gymnastics encourages McKayla and anyone who has been abused to speak out. USA Gymnastics remains focused on our highest priority — the safety, health and well-being of our athletes and creating a culture that empowers and supports them.’
‘I’m not on social media right now, but I wish I was for this,’ announced McKayla Maroney, when asked about her thoughts on Chrissy Teigen’s support. ‘I’m shocked by your generosity, and I just want you to know how much hope your words bring to all of us.’
She continued: ‘I just can’t get over the fact that someone I don’t personally know is sticking up for me, let alone a strong women that I’ve looked up to for years! Thank you Chrissy, you’re so inspiring, and things are starting to change because of people like you.’
‘Just saying that was worth the decision to speak up regardless of a fine. You’ve a heart of pure gold. God bless.’
