Simone Biles is making waves not just in gymnastics, but also on the red carpet with a brand-new look. The Olympic gold medalist stunned fans as she debuted her chic, chin-length bob at the 58th Annual CMA Awards on Wednesday evening. Her new hairstyle comes just months after she clapped back at critics who had previously scrutinized her hair during the Paris Olympics.
Biles had faced backlash over wearing her hair up in a simple bun during one of her events, but her response showed she wasn’t about to let anyone dull her shine.
On the red carpet in Nashville, Biles looked radiant as her bob was styled with a soft wave, perfectly complementing her shimmering silver off-the-shoulder gown. The look was both elegant and modern, a reflection of Biles’ confident personality.
Earlier that day, the gymnast had teased her new hairstyle to her followers on Instagram. In a playful Story post, she gave a hint of what was to come. “Okay but wait for the glow up later today,” she wrote, building anticipation for her red carpet reveal.
The new look features a stylish side part and forgoes the blonde highlights she’d been sporting recently, giving her a fresh and sophisticated vibe. Fans were quick to shower Biles with praise, celebrating her bold style change.
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Biles’ hair had become a topic of conversation back in July during the Paris Olympics. Critics took issue with her simple bun, but Biles wasted no time in defending herself.
Addressing the situation on her Instagram Story, she made it clear that practicality was her priority, especially given the circumstances.
“Don’t come for me about my hair. IT WAS DONE but bus has NO AC & it’s like 9,0000 degrees,” Biles wrote, adding a video of herself trying to cool down with a portable fan while on a sweltering bus.
In a follow-up Story, she also addressed the broader issue of comments on Black women’s hair, stating, “Gonna hold your hand when I say this next time you wanna comment on a Black girl’s hair. JUST DON’T.”
Biles has been vocal about her journey with embracing her natural hair. In an interview with Elle earlier this summer, she opened up about how she’s dealt with unsolicited comments about her hair and her journey toward self-acceptance. “I used to worry about [my hair being considered] not professional,” she said. “But I’m not embarrassed about it anymore.” She also pointed out that much of the backlash often comes from within the Black community itself, which she finds particularly unfortunate. “I don’t really care if my edges aren’t smooth,” she added.
When it comes to her hair on the competition floor, Biles emphasized the importance of practicality over appearance. “I don’t want my extensions falling out or this, that [and] the other,” she explained, noting that gymnasts don’t have the luxury of bringing a makeup artist or hairstylist with them.
Biles has had an extraordinary year both on and off the mat. At the 2024 Games, she became the most decorated U.S. gymnast in history, bringing her total medal count to 11, including seven golds.
She led the women’s gymnastics team to a gold medal in July, solidifying her place as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Even amidst her success, Biles hasn’t been immune to criticism. After leading her team to gold, she took to social media to defend her teammates after her former teammate MyKayla Skinner publicly suggested that the current team’s work ethic and talent were lacking.
In classic Biles fashion, she responded with grace and wit. “Lack of talent, lazy, Olympic champions,” she captioned a celebratory post featuring herself with teammates Suni Lee, Hezly Rivera, Jade Carey, and Jordan Chiles, proudly celebrating their well-deserved victory.
From standing up to critics to embracing her natural beauty, Simone Biles continues to inspire with her strength, resilience, and authenticity.
Her new bob may be a fresh change, but it’s clear that Biles’ fierce spirit remains unwavering.
