Three-time Olympic medalist Suni Lee went public with her new relationship via Instagram last week.
Lee, now a freshman at Auburn University, poses in the photo alongside her new boo with a caption that includes a single white heart emoji.
Some have apparently taken issue with the relationship. Lee recently left a comment on TikTok suggesting that some people in the Hmong American community have left her hate for dating a Black man amid ongoing racial tensions between Black and Asian communities across the country.
The video she commented on was made by a fan, @alixphom, who merely shared a screenshot of her Instagram post and expressed support. “I know that Sunisa will be judged by certain eyes in the Hmong Community because her man is Black,” the caption reads. “LOVE is LOVE, no matter what race or gender you are. Keep doing you, QUEEN.”
Lee expressed her gratitude to the creator of the video, writing: “This makes me so happy. I’ve received so much hate [crying emoji]. They support me when it’s beneficial for them, never when it comes to my happiness. Thank you! [heart emoji]”
The star gymnast captured headlines over the summer for her outstanding performance in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Lee became the first Hmong American to make the U.S. Olympic gymnastics team in June, before going on to win gold, silver and bronze in three separate events.
Upon returning home to St. Paul, Minn., a parade was thrown in her honor and Lee received an outpouring of support from the Hmong community.
Featured Image via @sunisalee
