Coco Chanel once said, “A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life,” and Olympic gymnast Simone Biles is embracing that idea with a bold new look.
Biles, often seen competing in a high ponytail or rocking longer middle-part extensions, took to Instagram yesterday to debut her new look. In selfies posted to her Instagram Stories, Biles showcased a blunt bob with a striking side part, complete with asymmetrical layers.
But as much as this transformation may seem to be about just a simple haircut, Biles is no stranger to commentary on her hair. Even as she’s become one of the world’s greatest athletes, commenters online have focused on her appearance.
During the 2024 Paris Olympics, the seven-time gold medalist and abuse survivor came under fire for her natural hair choices while rocking her signature high ponytail.
During the competition, Biles said in an Instagram story that “her hair was done,” but she hadn’t bargained for a 45-minute bus ride, with no air conditioning, amid an ongoing heatwave in Paris.
Biles then clapped back at the trolls who decided to criticize her hair.
“Gonna hold your hand when I say this,” she wrote. “Next time you wanna comment on a Black girl’s hair. JUST DON’T.”
Her statement addressed a broader issue: the negativity that Black women can face when they choose to wear their natural hair in public, especially in the workplace.
In a July 17 interview with Elle, Biles spoke about reclaiming her power and confidence with her natural hair.
“I used to worry about my hair being considered not professional,” Biles said. “But I’m not embarrassed about it anymore.”