Gabby Douglas Responds After Internet Slams Her for Standing at Attention During National Anthem

When the United States women's artistic gymnastics team won the gold during the team finals Tuesday in Rio, many people were focused on the athletes' amazing performances. However, some people chose to focus on gymnast Gabby Douglas, who stood at attention as the United States' national anthem was played, rather than putting her hand on her heart.

The action caused Internet outrage, with Twitter users calling Douglas "disrespectful," among other things.

Gabby Douglas refused to place her hand over her heart during the medal ceremony. Straight disrespect! #gabbydouglas #TeamUSAgymnastics

— Michael Clay (@michaelclayatc) August 9, 2016

Ok why did Gabby Douglas have the audacity to not put her hand on her chest for the national anthem smh

— Natalia Martinez (@TalleyMartinez) August 10, 2016

Others came to her defense, noting that many people stand at attention during the national anthem.

Many of us stand at attention for the national anthem. Gabby Douglas should not be criticized for not putting her hand over her heart.

— Jose de Jesus Ortiz (@OrtizKicks) August 10, 2016

So what Gabby Douglas didn't place her hand over her heart. It's not that serious. Let the girl live.

— Kears (@KRocxz) August 9, 2016

Wednesday morning, Douglas addressed the issue and tweeted an apology, noting that she "meant no disrespect."

"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," Douglas wrote. "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 another gold for our country!"

#GoUSA❗️ #TeamUSA❗️ #FinalFive❗️ 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/vzhFZxYOWb

— Gabrielle Douglas (@gabrielledoug) August 10, 2016

This story first appeared at Womanista.