Simone Biles once again proved she’s a true trailblazer, not just in gymnastics but also out of the arena! The seven-time Olympic gold medalist turned heads at the 2024 CMA Awards, stepping out in a dazzling silver gown. But what turned the heads of fans and netizens is her bold new haircut. Ending the Gold Over America Tour with a bang, Simone is ready to make waves with a glamorous new chin-length bob cut.

The wavy, fluffy hairstyle marked a departure from her signature high ponytail, leaving fans and critics buzzing. Biles was subjected to unwarranted scrutiny for no known reason surrounding her hairstyles during the Paris Olympics. And such a striking transformation comes just months after Biles returned, adding more golden feathers to her hat. Following this narrative, the memories of a heartfelt admission of a fellow Olympian’s hair struggles have been reignited.

Biles’ elegant look on the CMA Awards red carpet received widespread applause. However, some online detractors were quick to voice their discontent. It’s a situation eerily reminiscent of the criticism Douglas endured during her groundbreaking 2012 Olympics appearance. Two athletes, who have emerged as athletic icons in their own right, found themselves at the center of discussions that diverted attention from their incredible athletic achievements to their hair.

Listening to the recent wave of backlash and critical comments on her hairstyle, Biles chose to unapologetically address the negativity with a direct message. Taking to her Instagram story, Simone wrote, “Don’t come for me about my hair.” She explained the circumstances behind her appearance during the July Olympics, citing the lack of air conditioning and long bus rides. Doubling down on her stance, she urged fans to reconsider their critiques, stating, “Next time you wanna comment on a black girl’s hair, JUST DON’T.” Her bold clapback resonated with many who see her as an emblem of resilience and self-assurance. A few years back, Gabby Douglas too had to fight against similar backlashes.

Douglas too faced similar criticism during her Olympic triumphs. A few years back, Douglas reflected on the emotionally draining journey that she had to fight against because of hair damage caused by years of tight ponytails for gymnastics. “I cried and cried and cried,” she admitted in a 2020 Instagram post recounting how bald spots made her feel self-conscious. But what made the situation even worse for her was the harsh public judgment.

There were days when Douglas continued to question herself, “Why can’t I have healthy hair?”. However, she soon learned to embrace her true self and beauty over all the critical comments passed by the keyboard warriors. Despite the immense pressure, Gabby persevered, eventually embracing her natural hair. She proudly later shared, “Now here I am today—no extensions, no clip-ins, no chemicals—all me.” The parallel pictures that are presented by the similar situation that Biles and Douglas had to deal with underscore a larger issue. The issue of the undue scrutiny Black women face regarding their appearance, even in moments of monumental achievement.

Simone Biles and Gabby Douglas reclaim narratives against critics

Black female athletes like Simone Biles and Gabby Douglas have shattered records, inspiring generations. They have continued to redefine excellence in gymnastics. Yet, their athletic achievements are often overshadowed by societal scrutiny of something as inconsequential as their hair. This fixation reflects the deep-seated biases that prioritize appearance over performance and achievements. And this is nothing short of a burden.

Simone Biles, fresh off leading Team USA to gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, once again found herself at the center of such criticism. Despite her gravity-defying routines earning scores of 14.600 and 15.300, the highest of the team competition, critics still chose to focus on her hairstyle. 

Supporters rallied to her defense, decrying the attacks as “anti-Black” and pointing out the parallel to Gabby Douglas’ experiences during the 2012 London Olympics. Gabby too was once mercilessly ridiculed for her slicked-back bun. She later revealed how it caused extensive damage to her hair. Despite her resilience, Douglas admitted the scrutiny took a toll, reflecting a societal tendency to undermine Black women’s achievements by fixating on their appearance.

Both athletes have used these moments to reclaim their narratives. As Biles said in a recent interview, “I don’t really care if my edges aren’t smooth.” Her unapologetic stance sends a powerful message. And that is excellence cannot and will not be diminished by the criticism of keyboard warriors.