Passionate author specializing in the vibrant world of hairstyling. With a knack for unraveling trends and sharing expert insights, Marissa crafts engaging content on the latest hairstyles, techniques, and industry innovations. Committed to empowering readers with knowledge, inspiration, and the confidence to embrace their unique style.
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These athletes didn’t just bring their A-game to the field – they brought it to their hair too.
When it comes to the Olympics, the focus is often on athletic performance, but the Paris 2024 Games showed us that hair can make just as powerful a statement. From cornrows to mullets, this year’s Olympians didn’t just compete on the world stage – they also set some major hair trends. Let’s take a closer look at the bold, colorful, and creative hairstyles that caught our eye.
Trinity Rodman, of the US women’s national soccer team, didn’t just deliver on the field – she also wowed us with her hair. Rodman’s cornrow braids with powder pink extensions were a nod to Megan Rapinoe’s signature pink look. Trinity wore them in two thick braids during games and then gathered them into a high ponytail for press conferences.
@paris2024
It’s only fitting that the Netherlands women’s pair rowing team opted for Dutch braids. Veronique Meester and Ymkje Clevering sported Dutch braids that ended in a slightly messy bun at the nape of the neck. After the intense competition, the braids became charmingly undone, giving off a natural and carefree vibe.
@veroniquemeester
Great Britain’s Louie Hinchliffe made waves with a modern mullet that was impossible to ignore. The style featured closely cropped thick bangs, shaved sides, and a longer back, creating an edgy, on-trend look. While mullets often stir up mixed feelings, Louie’s take was undeniably fresh and stylish. This is a mullet that’s all about attitude.
@louiehl
Masai Russell, the US women’s 100m hurdles champion, went for a hairstyle that’s as practical as it is stylish: long, thin boxer braids. These braids were braided close to the hairline and ran down the back, keeping her hair secure and out of her face during intense competition. Boxer braids are perfect for athletes who need a style that’s both functional and fierce.
@masai_russell
Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade combined elegance with athleticism in her high bun. Her long hair, intricately braided in box braids, transitioned from a rich chocolate brown to lighter caramel tones, ending in vanilla blonde tips. Gathered into a high bun, the braids created a voluminous look with playful, textured tips peeking out.
@rebecarandrade
Japan’s Akari Fujinami turned heads with her sleek pixie bob, tailored perfectly to her thick, straight hair. The cut features eye-skimming bangs and highlights her hair’s natural shine. To keep it competition-friendly, Akari braided the face-framing layers into two thin braids, opening up her face and adding a touch of athletic edge to her pixie bob.
@11.akrstagram.11
Armand Duplantis, Sweden’s pole vault star, made a statement with his effortlessly cool flow haircut. With a slightly wavy texture and a length that just grazes the ears, this medium-length style was tousled to perfection. The cut naturally parts where it wants, giving it a carefree and sexy vibe that perfectly complements Duplantis’s laid-back yet intense persona.
@mondo_duplantis
Ukraine’s Yaroslava Mahuchikh dazzled not just with her high jump but also with her stunning golden blonde money piece. The strategically placed highlights illuminated her face and looked amazing whether her hair was styled down in flowing locks or braided into French braids for the competition.
@Yaroslava
France’s Romane Dicko brought creativity to the forefront with her chin-length braided bob. Trading in her long locks for a bob cut, Romane kept her signature platinum blonde extensions but added red and blue braids on her temples, cleverly representing the French flag. This bold, creative look was both patriotic and fashion-forward.
@romane_dicko
Finally, we have Noah Lyles, the USA men’s 100m sprint champion, who showcased an impressive set of fishbone cornrows. The style featured two closely braided sections with white opaque beads along the “spines,” giving his hair a streamlined and practical look that didn’t sacrifice style.
@paris2024
As you take inspiration from these standout Olympic hairstyles, why not explore more athletic hair ideas to keep your game strong? Check out our articles 40 Athletic Hairstyles for Workout and Game Days for versatile styles that stay put, 7 Best Workout Hairstyle Ideas Inspired by Fitness Influencers for trendy and practical looks, and These 3 Men’s Hairstyles Will Guarantee Your Best Gym Experience to keep you looking sharp while breaking a sweat. Your next winning hairstyle is just a click away!
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