In a remarkable display of endurance, Holly Archer, a British runner, completed her first London Marathon in an impressive time of 2 hours and 39 minutes. However, the 31-year-old athlete found herself at the center of controversy not for her performance, but for her choice of attire during the race. Wearing a pair of running briefs, affectionately known as "run buns," Archer faced a barrage of criticism on social media that overshadowed her athletic achievement.
The London Marathon, held on April 27, 2025, saw a record-breaking 56,640 participants cross the finish line. Despite the event's festive atmosphere, Archer's outfit sparked heated discussions online, with some commentators likening her appearance to that of a swimsuit. Many were quick to express their disapproval, claiming she looked "uncomfortable" and questioning her wardrobe choice.
In response to the backlash, Archer took to TikTok to address her critics directly. "Should I have worn a tracksuit?" she asked in a follow-up video, clearly frustrated by the comments that focused more on her clothing than her race time. She explained that the weather conditions on race day were challenging, with temperatures soaring to about 75 degrees and humidity hitting 78 percent, making traditional running gear less practical.
Archer's attire, which some deemed inappropriate, was not a new phenomenon in the world of long-distance running. Many elite female athletes have opted for similar outfits for years, prioritizing comfort and performance over societal expectations of modesty. Despite this, Archer's experience highlights the ongoing double standards women face in sports.
Some social media users went as far as to mock her choice, with comments like, "Where’s her clothes?" and "Crazy how the guys can do this not in a bikini." Such remarks reflect a troubling trend where female athletes are often scrutinized for their appearance rather than celebrated for their accomplishments. Archer, however, was not alone in her defense. Supporters quickly rallied to her side, praising her performance and body confidence. One fan remarked, "Anyone moaning about what you’re wearing doesn’t understand the magnitude of running a marathon in 2 and a half hours." Another chimed in, "If I had abs like yours, I would wear that daily. Not just on race days!"
Despite the negativity, Archer remained proud of her marathon achievement. In her Instagram post, she described the experience as "crazy," emphasizing the electric atmosphere created by the crowds and participants. "My time wasn’t what I came here to do, BUT… before we judge, it was HOT. Bloody hot!" she wrote, acknowledging the tough conditions she faced.
As the fourth British woman to finish in the elite category of the London Marathon, Archer's performance is commendable, and she expressed that she would not change her experience for anything. "I came for a time, and I fell short. I also came to NOT give up, and I absolutely didn’t," she stated, reinforcing her determination and resilience.
The incident surrounding Archer's outfit has sparked broader conversations about gender equality in sports. While society has made strides in recognizing women's achievements, the scrutiny they face regarding their appearance continues to be a significant barrier. According to recent data, 97 percent of women feel judged on their looks, and 61 percent have experienced negative comments about their appearance. Archer's experience is a stark reminder that female athletes often have to navigate a landscape where their athleticism is overshadowed by outdated perceptions of femininity.
In conclusion, Holly Archer's London Marathon journey is a testament to her skill and determination as an athlete. While the criticism she faced regarding her outfit is disheartening, it also underscores the need for a shift in how society views female athletes. As Archer continues to break barriers in her sport, her story serves as an inspiration for many, proving that performance should always take precedence over appearance.
