Simone Biles, the world’s most decorated gymnast, is no stranger to the spotlight, both for her extraordinary achievements and the scrutiny that often accompanies them. Following her historic performance at the Paris Olympics, Biles took to Instagram to address unwarranted criticism about her hair.

In her Instagram story, Biles fired back at her detractors who had criticized her hair during the Olympics. She wrote, “Don’t come for me about my hair. It was done, but the bus had no AC and it’s like 9,000 degrees.” This response came after social media trolls targeted her appearance despite her monumental success at the Games. “I don’t understand. She just won the Olympics and you guys are talking about her hair,” Biles added, expressing her frustration with the focus on her personal appearance rather than her athletic accomplishments.

Biles has faced similar trolling before. Her documentary, Simone Biles: Rising, offers a glimpse into the challenges she’s encountered with online critics. In the documentary, Biles’ mother, Nellie, spoke about their special hair routine, revealing the personal significance behind it. “Tokyo was the one time I did not braid Simone’s hair. She’s an adult now and can braid her hair herself, but it’s not just about braiding. It’s the bonding and the touch,” Nellie said, emphasizing that the routine was more than just a grooming task—it was a cherished family tradition.

Despite the occasional negativity, Biles’ accomplishments continue to shine. After leading the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team to a gold medal in the team finals, her remarkable feats are what truly define her legacy. Yet, as Biles reminds us, the criticism she faces often seems disconnected from her extraordinary achievements.

As Simone Biles wraps up her historic stint in Paris, she leaves her followers with a clear message: “Next time you want to comment on a Black girl’s hair, just don’t.” Her powerful response underscores a broader conversation about respect and the undue focus on appearance over merit.

Biles’ resilience in the face of such scrutiny serves as a reminder that even the greatest of champions are not immune to unnecessary criticism. As she continues to make history, her message advocates for respect and understanding, setting a powerful example for others to follow.