GIVE HER A BREAK

Gabby Douglas Apologizes for U.S. Anthem Controversy

Failed to put hand over heart, stirring outrage.

U.S. women’s gymnastics star Gabby Douglas has apologized after controversy erupted over her not placing her hand over her heart during the playing of the U.S. national anthem following Team USA’s gold-medal victory on Tuesday evening. Social-media users took issue with Douglas’ lack of “respect” by not having her hand at her chest as teammates Simone Biles, Aly Raisman, Laurie Hernandez, and Madison Kocian did. Several hours later, Douglas took to 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 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.”