On August 5, 2024, at the Paris Olympics, a moment of sportsmanship involving US gymnasts Simone Biles, 27, and Jordan Chiles, 23, sparked a debate that attracted attention from various factions, including Michelle Obama, the former First Lady. The gymnasts bowed to Brazilian gold medalist Rebeca Andrade, 25, on the podium, leading to criticism from Marlon Humphrey, an NFL player.
The gesture occurred during the medal ceremony for the floor exercise event, with Andrade winning gold, Biles earning silver, and Chiles securing bronze (later revoked, see below). The bow was a sign of respect for Andrade’s victory and her impressive journey of overcoming three anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, but it elicited a range of reactions.
Humphrey, a cornerback for the Baltimore Ravens in Maryland, voiced his disapproval on social media, labeling the act as “literally disgusting.” His comment sparked intense backlash from fans and supporters of the gymnasts, many of whom defended Biles and Chiles and highlighted the significance of Andrade’s achievement and the spirit of sportsmanship that they embodied.
A user on “X” posed the question of whether demonstrating sportsmanship among three successful Black women in their field could be considered disgusting, echoing the sentiments of many who viewed the gesture as a meaningful display of mutual respect and camaraderie.
Michelle Obama, a well-known advocate for women and girls in sports, addressed the incident by praising the gymnasts’ show of support. She expressed admiration for the visible bonds of sisterhood and sportsmanship, and congratulated Rebeca, Jordan, and Simone on her “X” page, indicating her clear support for Biles and Chiles.
In an interview with NBC, Biles explained the reason behind the gesture, underlining the importance of sportsmanship and backing competitors regardless of the result. She and Chiles expressed happiness for their competitor, acknowledging her hard work and exceptional performance, with particular praise for her floor routine, which they deemed the best of the day and of the Olympics.
The incident underlined the strong connections that can form among athletes, that go beyond national and competitive boundaries. Andrade, who won four medals at the Paris Games, including gold in the floor final, expressed her appreciation for the support. “We can show the Black Power,” Andrade stated after winning the gold medal, recognizing the shared heritage and solidarity among the athletes.
Meanwhile, Humphrey faced considerable backlash for his remarks, prompting him to post a follow-up on social media. “I’m lowkey getting cooked right now,” he acknowledged, recognizing the severe criticism he was subject to.
After her celebrated win, Jordan Chiles officially lost her bronze medal in the floor event at the Paris Olympics after a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) judge ruled in favor of two Romanian gymnasts on August 10.
The judge at CAS sided with Romanian gymnasts Ana Barbosu — who was the original bronze medalist — and Sabrina Maneca-Voinea, who argued that Chiles had been mistakenly awarded third place during the floor final on August 5.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Sunday, August 11, that Barbosu will now receive the bronze medal.
