<p>We all know Gabby Douglas for setting trends and breaking records as a member of the U.S. Gymnastics team. However, a few years back, during what was an exciting time in her career, there were some critics that were wrongfully focused on her hair and not her talents.</p>
<p>Years later, Gabby took to her <em><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CEsCeyMnLNO/">Instagram</a></em> account to open up about her hair journey, and also share the progress her hair as made throughout the years.</p>
<p>As she shared a photo of her natural hair, she said, “From the heart from a very young age I always had to put my hair in a tight ponytail to do gymnastics and due to that my hair became completely damaged. I had bald spots on the back of my head. I was so embarrassed and self-conscious that I put a bunch of clips over the spots to try and cover them up, but it was still noticeable.&#8221;</p>
<p>She continued, &#8220;My hair grew a little, but shortly after, I had to cut all of my hair off because it was so damaged. I cried and cried and cried. most days I didn’t even want to go to the gym because I felt so embarrassed that all my hair was gone. I used to think: why can’t I have healthy hair? despite yet another challenge, I kept going.&#8221;</p>
<p>Gabby recalled the criticism she received about her hair while competing in the Olympics and said, &#8220;Fast forward to both Olympics and my hair was the topic of conversation. Now here I am today &#8211; no extensions &#8211; no clip-ins &#8211; no wigs &#8211; no chemicals &#8211; all me.&#8221;</p>
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<p>Back in <em><a href="https://dev.theshaderoom.com/21649-2/">2016</a></em>, during an interview, she became emotional as she was asked about the criticism she faced for her hair and the time when she didn&#8217;t place her hand over her heart during the National Anthem.</p>
<p>At that time she had said, &#8220;I tried to stay off the internet because there’s just so much negativity. Either it was about my hair or my hand not over my heart [on the medal podium] or I look depressed… It was hurtful. t was hurtful. It was. It’s been kind of a lot to deal with.&#8221;</p>
<p>Nonetheless, we are glad to see she is in a better space today.</p>
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<p>TSR STAFF: Jade Ashley @Jade_Ashley94</p>
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