Madonna gave a harsh response to all those who criticized her appearance at the Grammys, considering the attacks ageism and misogyny.
Ageism - discrimination against individuals or groups based on their age; Misogyny - dislike, contempt, prejudice or hatred of women.
On Sunday night, she introduced Sam Smith and transgender singer Kim Petras' performance at the Grammy Awards. Soon after, photos of Madonna at the ceremony began to circulate on social networks, where many people mocked her appearance and speculated about plastic surgery.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Madonna lamented the fact that comments about her appearance had overshadowed an important moment at the Grammys — Kim Petras was the first transgender woman to perform at the Grammys.
"Many people chose to only talk about my close-up photos taken with a long lens camera by a photographer that would distort anyone's face!!"
"Once again I am targeted by the ageism and misogyny that permeates the world we live in," she said. "A world that refuses to value women after the age of 45 and feels the need to punish her if she continues to be a strong-willed woman , hardworking and adventurous.
Madonna said she has "never apologized for any of the choices I've made, or the way I look or dress, and I don't intend to."
"I have been denigrated by the media since the beginning of my career, but I understand that this is all a test and I am happy to pave the way so that all the women after me have an easier time in the years to come."
