The Three-time Olympic gold medalist recently opened up about facing bullying from social media users, who have been publicly comparing her to the fellow athlete.
- August 8, 2024
AceShowbiz - Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas recently expressed her frustration with ongoing bullying she faces from gymnastics enthusiasts who compare her to Simone Biles. In response to a TikTok video suggesting that Douglas was abandoned by fans when Biles emerged as the face of the sport, Douglas revealed on Tuesday, August 6, "Constantly being bullied is very tiring and wearing on me."
Despite her accomplishments as the first Black gymnast to win an Olympic title in the all-around competition, Douglas feels she has been cast aside. However, she remains determined to live in peace. Douglas also expressed her appreciation for the support she has received, thanking fans for their love.
Meanwhile, Biles has previously stated that Douglas' success inspired her. "When I saw Gabby win the 2012 Olympics, I was like, 'If she can do it, I can do it.' " In the recent Paris Olympics, an all-Black podium in the individual floor event featured Biles and Jordan Chiles bowing to gold medalist Rebeca Andrade.
Douglas's injury prevented her from competing in Paris, but she nevertheless supported Biles and other Black gymnasts. The 28-year-old is not giving up on her Olympic dreams and aims to qualify for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. While she recognizes her age, Douglas believes that "age is really just a number."
