Simone Biles, the most talented gymnast in history, has made headlines for her spectacular accomplishments at the Olympics. However, rather than appreciating her accomplishments, some individuals decided to focus on her hair. Biles did not hold back in response to the criticisms.
Gymnasts frequently style their hair such that it stays away from their faces, allowing them to focus on their routines. Despite Biles’ remarkable talent and accomplishment, social media was awash with negative remarks regarding her hair. Some described it as sloppy or disheveled.
Biles responded by addressing the detractors on social media. She shared a photo of herself with her hair tied back into a ponytail, along with a text that shut down the nasty remarks. Biles firmly wrote, “Don’t come after me over my hair. It was finished, but the bus has no air conditioning and is around 9,000 degrees. “Oh, and a 45-minute ride.” In the photograph below, she is seen fanning her face due to the heat, adding, “Next time you wanna comment on a Black girl’s hair, JUST DON’T.”
Biles has spoken openly about her hair journey and the pressures placed on her as a gymnast. In an interview with Elle, she said social media inspired Black women to take better care of their hair and beauty routines. She explained that she used to be concerned about how her hair would be seen in terms of professionalism, but she is no longer embarrassed by it.
Unsurprisingly, many faithful supporters rallied to Biles’ defense following the criticism. One fan said, “Imagine being the type of person who watches Simone Biles perform moves that no one else can do, twirl in the air multiple times and land on her two feet… only to comment on her hair!” Imagine having that mentality. Another person said, “Simone Biles is out here making history, and people are concerned about her hair.” We’re truly fried as a culture.”
Simone Biles is not just an exceptional athlete, but also a role model for her fortitude and willingness to face unfair criticism. Her message is clear: focus on her amazing athletic ability, not her hair.
