Suni Lee Confronts Online Bullying After Historic Victoria’s Secret Runway Debut

Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee has responded to online critics following her debut at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The 22-year-old gymnast took to social media to address the negative comments directly. Her appearance marked a significant moment for athlete representation in the fashion world.

Lee posted a pointed video on TikTok, using an Ariana Grande song to clap back at the hate. She captioned the clip with a clear message, pleading, “Can u guys stop bullying me.” This public response highlights the intense scrutiny public figures face.

Gymnast’s Powerful Response to Cyberbullying

Lee’s TikTok video, posted on October 18, featured her lip-syncing to Grande’s “Successful.” The lyrics served as a defiant retort to her detractors. She actively engaged with her supportive followers in the comments section as well.

She specifically acknowledged a comment from Ming Lee Simmons and responded to a user questioning bullying over her height. According to Marie Claire, Lee saw her participation as a dream outside her comfort zone. She embraced the opportunity to challenge traditional boundaries.

A New Era of Representation in Fashion

Lee explained the profound personal significance of walking in the iconic show. She told Marie Claire that growing up, she rarely saw girls who looked like her in such spaces. Her presence aimed to empower young girls to embrace all aspects of their identity.

She revealed that the short preparation time was a blessing. It allowed her to appear as her authentic self on the runway. This honest approach resonated with her personal brand of resilience and hard work.

Suni Lee’s Victoria’s Secret debut represents a pivotal shift in how athletes and diverse body types are showcased in high fashion, proving that talent and femininity are not mutually exclusive.

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What did Suni Lee say about the Victoria’s Secret show?

She described it as a dream that pushed her beyond her comfort zone. Lee emphasized the importance of showing young girls they don’t have to fit into one box. She wanted to demonstrate that one can pursue Olympic gold and own their femininity.

How did Suni Lee respond to the online criticism?

She posted a TikTok video on October 18 lip-syncing to Ariana Grande’s “Successful.” Lee directly captioned the video with a plea for the bullying to stop. She also interacted with supportive comments from fans and celebrities.

Why was Suni Lee’s Victoria’s Secret appearance significant?

It marked a major step for athlete representation in the high-fashion industry. Lee noted she rarely saw figures like herself in such spaces growing up. Her walk championed the idea that women can excel in multiple, seemingly different, arenas.

Who else walked in the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show?

The show featured a diverse lineup including Bella Hadid, Gigi Hadid, and athlete Angel Reese. Returning icons like Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel also graced the runway. The event showcased a mix of supermodels and influential public figures.

What was unique about Lee’s preparation for the show?

She revealed she had very little time to prepare, which she felt worked to her advantage. This lack of extensive preparation allowed her to be her authentic self on the runway. She did not try to be something she was not.