Angel Reese’s Instagram account suddenly disappeared Thursday.
Angel Reese, the standout rookie for the Chicago Sky, has once again found herself at the center of public debate—this time over a New Year’s Day outfit that sparked an avalanche of online criticism.
The controversy surrounding her fashion choice led the young basketball star to delete her Instagram account, highlighting the intense scrutiny often directed at women in sports, particularly women of color.
The 22-year-old athlete’s departure from Instagram followed a surge of negative comments, turning what should have been a lighthearted moment into a storm of unwarranted backlash. While critics were quick to attack, the incident also triggered an outpouring of support from fans and advocates, who rallied behind Reese and called attention to the challenges she and other female athletes face in the public eye.
“Protect women in sports. Protect women, period,” one supporter shared on social media, reflecting the widespread belief that Angel Reese has been unfairly singled out.
Angel Reese’s battle against double standards
This isn’t the first time Angel Reese has found herself at the center of public debate. From her standout college basketball career at LSU to her transition to the WNBA, Reese has remained a polarizing figure. Her unwavering confidence and unapologetic demeanor have earned her admiration as a role model to many, while also making her a frequent target of criticism.
One fan summed up the issue bluntly: “Angel Reese is the most hated women’s athlete in the country, and it’s not because she’s done anything wrong. Her only ‘crime’ is being confident and unapologetic about her success.”
The discourse surrounding Reese’s treatment also underscores the racial and gendered biases that persist in sports. Observers have pointed out that male athletes rarely endure the same level of scrutiny for exhibiting confidence or making personal choices, highlighting a double standard that continues to challenge women in athletics.
