Farah Ann Abdul Hadi: Leotard Causes Critiques From Many Muslims For ‘Exposing’ Body Parts Despite 6 Medals [Photos]

Farah Ann Abdul Hadi, clad in a traditional leotard, scored at the 2015 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. With two gold medals, a silver, and a bronze, Hadi seemed like a 21-year-old gymnastic success story. But now Farah Ann Abdul’s leotard is causing critiques from many Muslims, reported MSN.

The social media feedback from Muslims initially was overwhelming against Farah Ann Abdul. Hadi’s leotard was the focus of the critical conversation because it revealed the shape of her female body parts.

Senior Islamic cleric Perak Mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria argued that because gymnastics attire such as leotards display the body shape so clearly, Muslim women should not participate.

“Gymnastics is not for Muslim women. It is clear that exposing one’s aurat [body parts that are supposed to be covered completely] and the shape of one’s body is haram [forbidden in Islam],” he declared.

And in terms of the possibility that would-be female Muslim gymnasts such as Farah Ann Abdul could find alternatives to leotards, Zakaria also contended that completely clothed athletes would not be able to participate adequately.

“If Muslim women want to participate in gymnastics, they have to find outfits which cover the aurat and this, in turn, might not be suitable for the sport,” added the cleric.

After earning medals in the women’s floor exercise, team events, and individual events for a total of six medals, Hadi did get support from Malaysia’s minister for youth and sports. Khairy Jamaluddin recommended that those who felt offended by Farah Ann Abdul should not watch Hadi when she was performing in a leotard.

“In gymnastics Farah wowed the judges and brought home gold. In her deeds only the Almighty judges her. Not you. Leave our athletes alone,” posted the youth and sports minister.

Supporters of the gymnast flocked to her Facebook page, posting positive messages for Farah Ann Abdul. Hadi thanked those supporting her decision to wear a leotard, reported Buzzfeed.

Her fans even came up with a new hashtag #?FARAHnatics?. And in response to all the appreciation and encouragement, Farah Ann Abdul shared her deep thanks. Hadi also posed photos of herself clad in the controversial leotard.

And while the 21-year-old gymnast had to deal with negative feedback for Hadi’s leotard despite all those wins, Tori Spelling just earned positive attention for sharing a selfie of herself clad only in a bra, as the Inquisitr reported.

What do you think of the controversy over Farah Ann Abdul Hadi’s leotard? Post your comments below.

[Image Via Facebook.com/FarahAnnAbdulHadi]