Malaysian gold medalist, Farah Ann Abdul Hadi, received criticism from the Muslim community because of her choice to compete in the traditional, form fitting, gymnast leotard. She keeps one tradition while breaking another, by proudly wearing her leotard in competitions around the world. She wears the same uniform as the other athletes in her sport while momentarily, at least while competeing, ignoring the statutes of her faith.
In the Islamic religion, women are required to cover their 'aurat' or genitalia, as well as their hair. Farrah sports her black and blue, bedazzled leotard with her hair slicked back in a ponytail, despite these religious requirements. Her choice brings up the difficulties Muslim women face when competing in sports like gymnastics. The head of the female sector of the National Muslim Youth Association in Malaysia, Roszida Kamaruddin, shared with media that “women should not be stopped from sports, but they must prioritize the Islamic codes in sports attire.” Many see Farrah’s actions as a disgrace and, not holding true to the religion of Islam. There is a perceived notion that she has chosen the sport over her religion.
However, supporters applaud Farrah for the audacity she has to rise above religious judgement and her determination to not let opinions dictate her drive to be an excellent athlete. She has also not let social and religious pressures interfere with her spiritual beliefs, even though she chooses not to practice one facet of her religion. Farrah’s courage opens up a door for many young Islamic women to participate in the sport. Her decision to wear the leotard also exposes a silver lining, showing that Muslim women can strive for their goals and not feel like they have to choose between their beliefs and their dreams.
Farrah is a chameleon in the sense that she has been able to exist in a space where she is primarily not supported by her own community, but thrives as a gymnast because she is confident in who she is. She is a woman of faith, she is an athlete, and she is a role model.
