USA Gymnastics will not fine McKayla Maroney for speaking out about sexual abuse case
Last Updated: 17/01/18 10:47pm
USA Gymnastics say McKayla Maroney will not be fined for speaking out about her sexual abuse case.
The governing body say Maroney was free to speak about her case following a public outcry over a non-disclosure agreement she was required to sign as part of a $1.25m settlement.
Maroney, a two-time world champion vaulter and Olympic champion, filed a lawsuit last month against USA Gymnastics and the US Olympic Committee after her settlement deal in December 2016.
The 22-year-old had been warned she could be fined $100,000 if she spoke about her abuse at the hands of disgraced former team doctor Larry Nassar under the terms of a non-disclosure agreement, which she had sought to have overturned.
USA Gymnastics said in a statement Maroney would not face a financial penalty for speaking about her abuse by Nassar, who is facing an ongoing sentencing hearing in Michigan this week.
"USA Gymnastics has not sought and will not seek any money from McKayla Maroney for her brave statements made in describing her victimization 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," USA Gymnastics said in a statement.
Maroney's lawyer, John Manly, says USA Gymnastics have been forced to back down after realising the order was unenforceable.
"Let's be clear. The only reason this statement was issued is because people were outraged at USAG's behavior toward Ms. Maroney and her family," he said.
"It is truly sad that USA Gymnastics and the USOC didn't and don't get it. They have no choice to relent because the cleansing sunlight of truth is shining upon them and they can no longer hide their misdeeds."
Maroney was among more than 100 female gymnasts alleged to have been abused by Nassar, who could face life in prison for his crimes.
