The Most Unforgettable Beauty Moments In Sports History
From Sha’Carri Richardson’s nails to Suni Lee’s lashes.
Throughout sports eras, female athletes have used stadiums and competitions to not only showcase their skillsets but also, their unique forms of self-expression through beauty. Whether it’s through nails, hair accessories or culturally celebratory makeup, these beauty choices add a personal touch to the intensity of competition, showing that style and performance can go hand in hand.
Below, we round up some of the most unforgettable beauty moments in sports history, from as far back as 1988 to the present day — from Venus Williams’ iconic beaded braids to Naomi Osaka’s playful, bow-adorned headphones.
Sha’Carri’s Olympics Manicure
We all know and love Sha’Carri Richardson’s iconic nail extensions, but her set in Paris during the 2024 Olympics truly stole the show. Representing the United States, she rocked a beautiful design in red, white and blue that reflected the colors of our country’s flag.
Venus Williams’ Beaded Braids
Back in her playing days, Venus Williams frequently graced the tennis courts with stunning braids adorned with beads. Here’s her America-inspired look from the Lipton Tennis Championships in the ’90s.
Florence Griffith Joyner’s Nail Extensions
Florence Griffith Joyner was a beauty legend in every sense, but it was this unforgettable photo of her nails from her Olympic victory at the 1988 games in Seoul, Korea, that truly captured the world’s heart.
Simone Biles’ Olympics Glam
For Simone Biles, it’s always important to wear matte makeup when she’s on the mat, ensuring that nothing distracts from her performance, like when she won at the 2024 Olympics.
Suni Lee’s Lash Extensions
A lover of lash extensions that don’t budge or smudge, Suni Lee’s beauty game is as strong as her athletic game, shown here at the 2024 Olympics. “I’m a huge beauty junkie, and I think that self-care is an essential element of mental health, so both of these things play a huge role in my daily routine,” she told Hypebae.
Naomi Osaka’s Bows
This past year, tennis star Naomi Osaka brought a touch of sweetness to the U.S. Open, stepping onto the court with delicate green bows on her headphones.
Shanice Van De Sanden’s Leopard Buzz Cut
Always one to don a bold look, Shanice Van De Sanden of the Netherlands wowed soccer matchgoers in 2019 during the FIFA Women’s World Cup with her leopard print buzz cut.
Inika McPherson’s Black Eyeshadow
Consistently using beauty as a medium for self-expression, Inika McPherson’s 2017 look for the Women’s High Jump final during the 16th IAAF World Athletics Championships in London showcased her fierce level of competition.
Jordan Chiles’ Bedazzled Face
Always one to make sure her beauty game is on point, Jordan Chiles is keeping her flirtation with makeup alive by bedazzling her cheeks at a recent meet for her UCLA team.
Nickiesha Wilson’s Olympic Ring Buzzcut
During the 2012 London Olympics, Jamician runner Nickiesha Wilson took her athletic pride to the next level by shaving the symbolic rings of the games into her hair.
While you’re here, check out our interview with beauty executives on why they’re investing in the world of sports.
