The Olympic medalist has had her fair share of unpleasant interactions troughout her career.
Simone Biles has spoken, and she’s not mincing words-she’s sick of people invading her personal space. The gymnastics icon, fresh off her honeymoon in South Africa, made it crystal clear that being touched or grabbed in public is a major no-go.
“The easiest way to irritate me is to touch or grab me when I’m in public,” Biles wrote on Threads on March 7, setting off a wave of support from fans who agreed that athletes deserve boundaries.
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This isn’t just about minor inconveniences-Biles has had to deal with unwanted physical contact throughout her career. During the Paris Olympics, a cameraman bumped into her mid-competition.
Biles, keeping her composure but visibly irritated, warned, “If one of these cameramen hit me one more time, we’re going to have an issue.” While she said it with a smile, the message was loud and clear: don’t cross the line.
Simone is not joking
One fan playfully asked how she managed to survive in South Africa, a country known for its affectionate culture. “We are very touchy-feely. We are forever greeting strangers with a hug or arm pat,” the fan wrote. But while Biles enjoyed her honeymoon, she’s made it clear-respecting personal space isn’t up for debate.
For many, Biles’ firm stance is completely understandable, especially given her history. She was one of the brave women who publicly testified against former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, who sexually abused countless athletes under the guise of medical treatment. The trauma left deep scars, making her even more adamant about setting boundaries.
Gabby Thomas was the most recent victim
She’s not alone. Sprinter Gabby Thomas recently revealed she was physically grabbed at an airport by a man who accused her of not earning her Harvard degree. “Imagine just trying to go for a run and someone feels entitled to put their hands on you,” Thomas posted.
The message is clear: just because someone is in the public eye doesn’t mean they’re public property. And if you dare invade Simone Biles’ space, don’t expect her to stay silent.
