Simone Biles is holding USA Gymnastics accountable for its role in the Larry Nassar scandal. As she prepared for the US Championships, Biles spoke out about the abuse she and hundreds of other athletes endured at the hands of former team doctor Larry Nassar.

At the Target Center, Biles watched young gymnasts perform, a stark contrast to the turmoil of the Nassar scandal that nearly dismantled USA Gymnastics. Five years ago, the organization was on the brink of collapse, but now there’s a renewed sense of hope and resilience.

How did USA Gymnastics manage to rebuild trust and foster a healthier environment for its athletes? Despite a major leadership overhaul, Biles expressed emotional difficulty in trusting the organization again.

The scandal left a profound impact. Nassar, a trusted figure meant to protect athletes, instead abused them under the guise of medical treatment, causing widespread damage to countless lives. Over 300 women, including prominent gymnasts like Biles, came forward with their stories.

In the immediate aftermath, USA Gymnastics faced numerous lawsuits from survivors and eventually filed for bankruptcy. The organization struggled with leadership changes and lost major sponsors, further compounding its financial troubles.

The fallout also led to a severe erosion of trust. What was once seen as a protector of young talent became associated with a culture of abuse. The gymnastics community and the public felt the impact, with many parents hesitant to enroll their children in gymnastics programs.

The Nassar scandal served as a wake-up call for sports organizations to prioritize athlete safety, transparency, and accountability. In early 2019, with USA Gymnastics still reeling, Leong Le Young stepped in as president and CEO. Her background as a former gymnast and corporate executive made her well-suited to lead the organization through its recovery.

Leong’s vision included creating a culture of transparency and athlete welfare. She assembled a leadership team, including Stephanie Corpin and former Olympians Chelsea Memmel and Alicia Sacramone Quinn, who shared her commitment to these goals.

Changes implemented under Leong’s leadership included a new athlete funding model, mental health support programs, and the introduction of therapy dogs at events. These efforts helped rebuild trust and foster a supportive environment for athletes.

At recent events, like the US Championships, the positive impact of these changes was evident. Biles, for instance, took the time to comfort Sunisa Lee after a challenging vault.