olympics-en : ## Simone Biles Responds to Criticism Over Olympics Podium Gesture

Icaro
Game Recaps
06/08/2024 23h47

Simone Biles has fired back at Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey after he criticized her and teammate Jordan Chiles for bowing to Rebeca Andrade on the podium following their events at the Paris Olympics. Biles, who took fifth in the balance beam and was outshone by Andrade in the floor routine, faced backlash from Humphrey who deemed her actions 'disgusting'.

In defense of their gesture, Biles explained it as an act of sportsmanship, highlighting the importance of supporting competitors and acknowledging their efforts. She commended Andrade for her impressive performance, stating, "You have to give them their flowers, and that's exactly what me and Jordan were doing."

Biles, who accumulated a total of 11 Olympic medals in her career, hinted that Paris 2024 might have been her last appearance but left the door open for a potential return in Los Angeles in four years. Her husband, Jonathan Owens, who was granted permission to leave Chicago Bears' training camp to support Biles in Paris, has since returned to the team.

While Humphrey received criticism for his comments, social media users rallied behind Biles, emphasizing her remarkable athletic achievements and sportsmanship. The debate surrounding Biles' actions and Humphrey's remarks sparked varied reactions online, with many questioning the NFL star's relevance in the context of the Olympics.

As Biles looks to her future in the sport, the controversy surrounding her interactions with Andrade on the podium during the Paris Olympics serves as a testament to the broader discussions on sportsmanship, camaraderie, and the spirit of competition in elite athletics.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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