By Isha - Mar 03, 2025
Scottish middle-distance runner Eilish McColgan addresses and condemns body-shaming comments on her physique, emphasizing her commitment to health and athleticism. The European Championship silver medallist expresses frustration with double standards in societal perceptions and highlights the pressure on young women due to such criticisms. Fellow athletes rally in support, with Olympian Tom Bosworth echoing McColgan's sentiments.
Eilish McColgan ran a season's best in the final of the 10,000m at the 2024 Olympics via Getty Images
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Scottish middle-distance runner Eilish McColgan has publicly addressed and condemned body-shaming comments targeting her physique, emphasizing her commitment to health and athleticism. The European Championship silver medallist has faced criticism on social media platforms, with detractors labeling her as "too skinny."
In response to such comments, McColgan expressed her frustration, stating, "Nothing pisses me off more than someone commenting that I'm 'too skinny.' I'm naturally small, always have been. Some people are just slim." She further highlighted the double standards in societal perceptions, noting that similar remarks are seldom directed at individuals who are larger than average. McColgan asserted, "I'm a healthy athlete and human. Go body shame elsewhere!"
The athlete also addressed the broader implications of such criticisms, pointing out that societal pressures contribute to body image issues among young women. She remarked, "It's no surprise that young girls feel the need to get boob jobs, big plastic asses, and contour themselves down to their kneecaps to fit what's deemed the 'ideal' body." McColgan urged individuals to think twice before making comments about others' appearances, emphasizing that some people are naturally thin.
Fellow athletes have rallied in support of McColgan. Olympian and race walking silver medallist Tom Bosworth resonated with her sentiments, stating, "This is the story of my life!! Does my head in." McColgan's stance against body-shaming underscores the challenges athletes face regarding public scrutiny of their bodies.