In 2024, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles gained attention not only for her athletic achievements but also for her controversial stance on a divisive issue.

Biles called for penalties against athletes chosen as U.S. flag bearers at the Olympic opening ceremony if they kneel during the national anthem, arguing that such actions disrespect the nation’s honor.

This stance has fueled a heated debate, highlighting the ongoing divide in public opinion about kneeling during the anthem as a form of protest.

The controversy began in 2016 when NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick first knelt to protest racial injustice and police brutality.

Since then, the act has become a powerful symbol of resistance, embraced by athletes across various sports, generating both strong support and significant backlash.

Biles’ petition is based on the belief that kneeling during the anthem, particularly by those selected to carry the nation’s flag, detracts from the unity and respect that the flag represents.

Supporters of her petition argue that a flag bearer’s role is to embody the nation’s values and that kneeling during the anthem in this context shifts the focus from national pride to personal protest, which they view as inappropriate and disrespectful.