Filipina hurdler and Olympian Lauren Hoffman sends out a clear and important message against body shaming of women in sports.
In celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Filipina track star Lauren Hoffman shared a powerful message in response to online comments questioning her sexuality based on her appearance.
Hoffman posted a video on her Instagram page reacting to a photo of her that had been reposted on Facebook, where people criticized her body and speculated about her sexuality.
In the video, Hoffman lightheartedly addressed the unwarranted comments while using the platform to deliver a reminder about the challenges women in sports often face regarding their looks.
She emphasized the constant scrutiny women athletes receive about their bodies, weight, and appearance, even when they are simply trying to compete and enjoy their sport.
"Here is a reminder that unwarranted comments about a woman’s looks are often a part of the woman athlete experience. People are constantly commenting on the appearance, body, weight, frame of women when we are just trying to compete and enjoy our sports!" Hoffman wrote.
While she kept the tone of her video light, the underlying message was clear.
Hoffman stressed the importance of rejecting stereotypes and unrealistic standards imposed on women in sports and beyond.
"You don’t need to fit into any box of what a woman 'should' look like and you are beautiful just the way you are," the Fil-Am hurdler continued.
Hoffman competed for Team Philippines during the Olympic Games Paris 2024, where she competed in the women’s 400m hurdles.
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By using her platform to address these issues, Hoffman joins a growing movement of athletes and public figures working to redefine beauty and identity, promoting diversity and self-acceptance.