Rio 2016: U.S. gymnast criticized for 'disrespect' during anthem
American gymnast Gabby Douglas, second from left, has been criticized for not putting her hand over her chest while the U.S. national anthem was played at the Rio Olympics. / Courtesy of YouTube
By Hong Dam-young
American gymnast Gabby Douglas is under fire for her seemingly “anti-national” attitude during the U.S. women’s gymnastics team’s gold medal ceremony in Rio.
During the ceremony at Rio Olympics Arena on Aug. 9, Douglas did not put her hand over her chest as she stood on the podium while the U.S. national anthem was being played.
Her controversial posture went viral on social media, with people for and against her.
Tweeters accused her of being intentionally disrespectful to the U.S. and called her behavior anti-American.
But others pointed out that according to the U.S. flag code, it is not a law to place a hand on one’s chest.
Douglas apologized on Twitter.
“In response to a few tweets I saw tonight, I always stand at attention out of respect for our country whenever the national anthem is played,” she said.
“I never meant any disrespect and apologize if I offended anyone.
“I’m so overwhelmed at what our team accomplished today and overjoyed that we were able to bring home gold for our country.”
This is not the first time the African-American has faced criticism.
At the 2012 Olympics in London, people criticized her ponytail because it did not suit African-Americans.
Douglas is the first African-American to won an Olympic gymnastics gold medal in the individual all-around event.
Some viewed the controversy in a racist way.
They pointed out that American swimmer Michael Phelps laughed during the national anthem for his 20th gold medal ceremony, but people did not question his patriotism.