“And he got his nails painted 🤣 say something,” tweeted former NBA star Dwayne Wade in celebration of Team USA Noah Lyles’ victory in the 100m at the Paris Olympic Games.
This jab at a hypermasculine community recognized the cultural and social significance of Lyles’ win beyond just his athletic ability. Lyles’ decision to wear nail polish during his win challenges these traditional notions, particularly in the landscape of sports, where these ideals have long been the norm.
Dwyane Wade. Image: Taylor Hill for Getty Images.
Wade, himself is no stranger to this criticism. However, he’s not the first male athlete to express themselves this way. Let’s not forget NBA legend, Dennis Rodman. If he was not the first male athlete to paint his nails, he definitely was a trailblazer in breaking athlete gender norms both on and off the court. And other athletes have embraced nail art including rookies Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears and Jared McCain of the Philadelphia 76ers.Â
Those quick to criticize this form of expression are stuck in an era when Black men were hypermasculine and wore oversized clothing (and not the stylish oversized clothes of 2024). It was a time when men who went from just getting a haircut to grooming were called “metrosexual.” Today, men wear what makes them happy, and we love that for them.Â
For Wade, wearing nail polish is not only a form of creativity but a way for him to bond with his youngest daughter, Kaavia, when giving her manis and pedis. He’s even teased the potential of coming out with his own nail polish line soon.
The tweet acknowledges the intersection of race, gender and personal expression. It highlights the importance of visibility and representation in challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. By celebrating Lyles’ achievement and personal style, Wade contributes to a broader dialogue about redefining Black masculinity and encouraging acceptance of diverse identities within the Black community and beyond.
