Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, is used to sticking the landing. But her latest routine—a TikTok rant about the cost of looking good on a red carpet—has drawn a wave of backlash.
The seven-time Olympic gold medalist attended the Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid earlier this year, and the price tag for the experience left her stunned. In a video posted to her TikTok, Biles revealed that the total cost for her outfit, hair, makeup, and security came to a staggering $23,000.
“We need to have a discussion… I just need to know if this is normal,” Biles said in the clip. “I know going outside is expensive as (expletive) these days, but like is it this expensive, ok?”
But instead of sympathy, Biles is now facing a storm of criticism, with many accusing her of being out of touch. Batya Ungar-Sargon, host of Batya! on NewsNation, took aim at the gymnast in a video posted to X.
“We’ve let Simone Biles down,” Ungar-Sargon said. “The Olympic gymnast, worth an estimated $25 million, is outraged that it costs so much to glam yourself up these days. How dare those makeup artists and hairstylists try to make a living? How dare they charge Simone Biles so much money? Don’t they know who she is?”
The criticism was echoed by others who pointed out the irony of a multimillionaire complaining about the cost of luxury services. “If there’s one thing worse than a clueless, out-of-touch gazillionaire, it’s a cheap one,” Ungar-Sargon added.
Biles has not backed down from her stance, insisting that no event should cost that much, regardless of her net worth. The debate has reignited conversations about the economics of celebrity appearances and the costs associated with maintaining a public image.
This isn't the first time Biles has spoken out about the financial realities of her fame. She has previously discussed the high costs of training and competing, as well as the pressure to look perfect at high-profile events. However, this latest controversy has put her in a different spotlight—one that questions whether her decision to boycott red carpets is justified or just another example of a wealthy athlete out of touch with everyday struggles.
Meanwhile, the backlash has also drawn attention to the broader issue of how much celebrities are charged for services. Some have pointed out that the same hairstylists and makeup artists who work with stars often charge premium rates, and that Biles' complaint may be less about the cost and more about the principle.
As the debate rages on, Biles remains focused on her training and upcoming competitions. Her next big test? The pressure of being a favorite is something she knows well, but the court of public opinion is a different arena altogether.
