Simone Biles and Jordan Childs have garnered support from former First Lady Michelle Obama after photos of them with their medals went viral.
After the U.S. gymnasts bowed in honor of Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade, who had just won gold on the floor exercise, both Biles and Chiles were called out by Ravens defensive back Marlon Humphrey.
“This is so bad,” said Humphrey, a three-time Pro Bowl selection. I wrote to X on Monday morning..
But President Obama had a very different reaction to the Americans’ actions after Biles won silver and Chiles won bronze, saying they showed a high level of “sportsmanship.”
I still remember this beautiful moment of sisterhood and sportsmanship! I can feel the love shining through these women. Congratulations Rebecca, Jordan and Simone!” Obama wrote to X.
Humphrey was heavily criticized online for his opinions, which he confirmed in a follow-up statement late Monday night.
“I’m currently getting quiet criticism. I think people are yelling abuse at me in Brazilian on Instagram lol,” he wrote.
It was an eventful Olympics for Biles and Chiles, who led Team USA to six medals in total.
It was a revenge tour, especially for Biles, who overcame “many twists and turns” to withdraw from competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
2024 Paris Olympics
With three gold medals and one silver, Biles’ incredible performance in Paris has once again placed her at the forefront of the gymnastics world.
The 27-year-old caused a stir on social media earlier in the Games after the United States won gold in the team all-around by calling out former teammate Mikayla Skinner, who had previously criticized the U.S.’s “work hard” tactics.
Skinner took to Instagram on Tuesday to plead with Biles to stop criticizing her fans.
“Simone, I am asking you directly and publicly: please stop this and ask your followers to stop too. You are a fantastic advocate for mental health awareness and so many people need your help right now,” Skinner said.
Although Biles has finished competing in this Olympics, she has not ruled out competing again in 2028.
