Watching the Olympics—especially gymnastics—without recognizing the brilliance of Simone Biles seems almost impossible. Over the past decade, Biles has elevated the sport to breathtaking new heights, redefining what it means to be an elite athlete and inspiring millions around the world. Her name has become synonymous with excellence, fearlessness, and grace under pressure.
Yet despite being one of the most decorated gymnasts in history, Biles once again found herself the subject of criticism—not for a slip on the balance beam or a missed landing, but for something far more trivial: her hair.
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Biles helped Team USA secure its fourth consecutive gold medal in women’s team gymnastics—an incredible accomplishment by any measure. In the process, she also picked up her eighth Olympic medal, further cementing her legacy as the most decorated American gymnast of all time. Her routines left both the audience and commentators in awe. With every twist, flip, and gravity-defying vault, Biles reminded the world that she is a once-in-a-generation talent.
But while her athletic performance was nearly flawless, some spectators on social media seemed more concerned with how she styled her hair than the historic achievements unfolding before them.
A Distraction from the Real Story
At 27, Simone Biles is competing at a level most gymnasts can only dream of. And yet, internet trolls chose to zoom in—not on her artistry or her groundbreaking routines—but on her edges, bun, and flyaways.
Some criticized the style as “unpolished” or “not Olympic-worthy.” The comments were, as Biles herself later described, “exhausting” and “infuriating.” In an age when appearance continues to be unfairly scrutinized—particularly for Black women in the public eye—Biles’ experience is, sadly, all too familiar.
On her Instagram Stories, Simone addressed the backlash in a tongue-in-cheek post. In the photo, she’s seen fanning herself beside a bus, clearly overheated but composed. The caption reads:
“Don’t talk about my hair. The bus has no air conditioning, and it’s about 9,000 degrees. Also, the ride is 45 minutes long.”
She followed it up with a more serious message:
“Let me hold your hand and tell you this: if you ever feel the need to comment on a Black girl’s hair, don’t.”
The response was swift—and overwhelmingly supportive.
Support Pours In for Simone
Across Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms, fans and fellow athletes came to Simone’s defense. Some pointed out the double standards that female athletes—especially Black women—face. Others posted their own photos celebrating their natural hair, expressing solidarity and admiration for Simone’s confidence.
One comment summed it up best:
“She’s doing Yurchenko double pikes while you sit behind a screen complaining about her bun? Focus.”
Another user wrote:
“Simone Biles is making history, and people are worried about her hair? That’s what systemic racism and misogynoir look like.”
Many users highlighted the toll of competing under such intense physical and mental pressure—especially in sweltering conditions—and how personal grooming should be the last thing scrutinized.
A Deeper Conversation About Image and Identity
Simone Biles’ experience is not just about online criticism. It touches on a larger societal issue—the way Black women’s bodies, appearances, and choices are constantly policed in public. From Serena Williams’ catsuit to Zendaya’s locs, history is full of examples where success and style intersect—and attract unwarranted scrutiny.
Hair, in particular, has long been a site of identity, pride, and contention for Black women. Whether natural, straightened, braided, or in buns, their hair is often judged through biased and Eurocentric standards of beauty.
Simone’s decision to speak up wasn’t just about defending herself—it was a powerful statement of resistance and a reminder that Black women deserve to compete, win, sweat, and shine—without being dissected or diminished.
History in Motion
While the noise around her appearance threatened to steal headlines, Simone kept her focus where it mattered—on her performance. She delivered spectacular routines on the floor, vault, and beam, radiating confidence, discipline, and brilliance. Her execution, marked by both artistry and athleticism, was met with thunderous applause and jaw-dropping scores.
She didn’t just win medals—she made a statement. At 27, an age when most elite gymnasts have long since retired, Biles is pushing boundaries, rewriting history, and inspiring a new generation of athletes, especially young girls of color.
Beyond the Gym
Simone Biles’ career has been marked not just by athletic success but also by advocacy and vulnerability. She’s spoken openly about mental health, trauma, and the pressure of expectations. Her decision to prioritize her well-being at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics sparked an international conversation about athlete mental health, for which she received widespread praise.
In Paris, she returned not just as a competitor but as a survivor, a leader, and a symbol of strength in the face of adversity—both personal and public.
Simone Biles Is More Than Her Hair—She’s a Legend
As the world celebrates her latest victories, it’s important to remember: Simone Biles is not here to meet anyone’s beauty standards. She is here to defy gravity, make history, and pave the way for others. She owes the world no explanation for her hair, her style, or her decisions. What she offers instead is greatness in motion—and that should be more than enough.
So, while the critics stay focused on the superficial, the rest of us will keep watching in awe—not just at Simone Biles’ hair, but at her heart, her courage, and her undeniable brilliance.
Well done, Simone. Keep soaring.