Michelle Obama has come forward to support Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles after NFL star Marlon Humphrey criticized the two American gymnasts for bowing to Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade at the Olympics. This gesture took place on the podium after Biles and Chiles secured second and third place, respectively, in the floor exercise final. Humphrey, a cornerback for the Baltimore Ravens, reacted strongly, calling the act “literally disgusting” in a post on X.
Barely 24 hours after Humphrey’s comment, Michelle Obama responded with a heartfelt message on X, emphasizing the beauty of the moment.
“I’m still not over this beautiful moment of sisterhood and sportsmanship! You can just feel the love shining through these ladies,”
the former First Lady wrote. She also congratulated Rebeca, Jordan, and Simone.
Humphrey faced significant backlash on social media following his comment. Many users informed him about Andrade’s history with injuries and her close relationship with Biles and Chiles. One user pointed out, “Yeah, because giving someone their flowers who has come back from THREE ACL tears to continue to be a top gymnast is disgusting.” Another added, “God forbid athletes show respect to a fellow athlete who has suffered a torn ACL multiple times.” Others challenged Humphrey to achieve something significant in his own career before criticizing accomplished athletes.
The support for Biles, Chiles, and Andrade extended beyond social media. Andrade, speaking to reporters after the final, highlighted the significance of their gesture. “We can show the Black power… The idea is it serves as an incentive,” she explained. The Brazilian champion acknowledged the additional challenges faced by gymnasts of color and emphasized that their success demonstrates what’s possible.
Michelle Obama’s recent show of support for Biles and Chiles isn’t her first. During the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she encouraged Biles after the gymnast’s early exit from the competition. At that time, Obama wrote on X, “Am I good enough? Yes, I am. The mantra I practice daily. @Simone_Biles, we are proud of you and we are rooting for you. Congratulations on the silver medal, Team.
Humphrey seemed to regret his initial reaction later, sharing on X that he was feeling the heat from Brazilian fans. “I’m lowkey getting cooked right now. I think I’m getting cussed out in Brazilian on Instagram lol,” he wrote, noting that he forgot the primary language in Brazil is Portuguese.
This incident highlights the broader issue of respect and recognition in sports, especially when athletes from different backgrounds and countries show support for one another. The backlash against Humphrey and the overwhelming support for Biles, Chiles, and Andrade underscore the importance of sportsmanship and unity in athletics. Athletes, regardless of their sport, often face immense challenges, and their mutual respect can serve as a powerful message to fans and fellow competitors alike.
In a world where negative comments can spread quickly on social media, positive gestures and words of support, like those from Michelle Obama, can make a significant impact. They remind us that sports are not just about competition but also about camaraderie, resilience, and mutual respect. As these gymnasts continue to inspire millions with their performances and sportsmanship, their actions on and off the podium will be remembered and celebrated.
