Simone Biles made history when she became the first woman to win five United States Women’s Gymnastics Championship all-around titles in Boston yesterday. Biles, who is the first woman to win all four event titles since Dominique Dawes in 1994, wore a teal outfit in solidarity for survivors of abuse.
“[The color] is for the survivors,” Biles told ESPN. “I stand with all of them, and I think it’s kind of special to unite.”
The “Go Teal” campaign was started at Michigan State where Larry Nassar was formerly a doctor. Students attending the institution used ‘Go Teal’ as a vehicle to stand in solidarity with victims of Nassar who testified against him during the trial.
In January, the 21-year-old Olympic champion opened up about being molested by ex-United States team doctor Larry Nassar. More than 260 women and girls told law enforcement he sexually abused them. Nassar is currently serving a 175-year sentence after pleading guilty to criminal sexual conduct.
Many have accused USA Gymnastics of not taking adequate action against Nassar and Biles’ outfit has placed the spotlight firmly back on the organization.
Her victory comes after a two-year hiatus. Biles returned to the sport just three weeks ago and didn’t skip a beat. Biles racked up a total of 119.850, a 6.55-point margin of victory over 2017 World all-around champion Morgan Hurd.
