Female athletes who made history beyond gold in Rio

It would be naive to think that all traces of inequality between the sexes have been eliminated, but the sound of walls and glass ceilings being shattered helps sustain a hopeful note amid irksome headlines.

Two Simones from #TeamUSA left people following the Rio Olympics astounded. Gymnast Simone Biles confounded physics with her gravity-defying signature move (The Biles), while swimmer Simone Manuel debunked old stereotypes and became the first female African-American to win gold in her sport.

Tennis player Monica Puig (Puerto Rico) and judoka Majlinda Kelmendi (Kosovo) also made history by bringing home the first gold for their countries. But placing first is not the only way to make a mark.

Rose Nathike Lokonyen, Anjelina Nadai Lohalith, Yolande Bukasa Mabika, and Yusra Mardini of the Refugee Olympic Team didn't need a medal—their presence was a strong enough statement.

And, of course, Hidilyn Diaz's silver medal is enough to cause a swell of pride among Filipinos everywhere.

Check out some of the women who made history at the Rio Olympics.

— Aya Tantiangco/BM, GMA News