She might be the most decorated gymnast in history, but unfortunately, that hasn’t shielded Simone Biles from receiving a barrage of criticism online.
The seven-time gold medallist has developed a thick skin over the years and often responds to detractors who take issue with her online activities.
This criticism has ranged from spectators taunting her during the Paris Olympics, despite her adding three gold medals to her collection.
She has even faced scrutiny over her hairstyle choices.
Undoubtedly, securing three gold medals while facing such criticism only amplifies her achievements.
However, it appears that this time the criticism came not just from viewers and typical keyboard warriors at home.
One well-known personality decided to voice their opinion on social media about Biles, who is often hailed as the greatest gymnast ever.
This personality was NFL player Marlon Humphrey, who criticized how Biles and her teammate Jordan Chiles reacted to Brazilian winner Rebeca Andrade.
While standing on the podium with their medals, Biles and Chiles took a moment to bow down to the gold medallist as a sign of sportsmanship and respect for their fellow athlete.
This was Andrade’s first gold medal of the summer, and the moment was shared on Twitter by SportCenter.
However, Humphrey was unimpressed by this gesture of respect, calling it “literally disgusting.” Quite a harsh statement.
Speaking to the TODAY show on August 6, Biles defended their actions.
She stated: “I think it’s all about sportsmanship, and we don’t care whether we win or lose.
“We’re always going to keep a good face and support our competitors because they’ve worked just as hard as we have for that moment.”
She added: “You have to give them their flowers and that’s exactly what me and Jordan were doing.
“We were so happy for her. She deserved it, she had the best floor routine of the day, and of the Olympics.”
Biles was not the only one who found Humphrey’s post inappropriate.
One user commented: “God forbid athletes show respect to a fellow athlete who has suffered a torn ACL multiple times.”
Another posted: “Yeah, because giving someone their flowers who has come back from THREE ACL tears to continue to be a top gymnast is disgusting.”
In a sharp retort, a third person told him, “get to a final and win something. Then you can talk.”