Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn says the backlash over her performance at the Olympics is “devastating”.
Gunn – known as “B-girl Raygun” – has been the subject of a social media storm since her debut at the Paris Olympics last week.
A petition calling for an apology from Gunn, 36, and Australia’s head of Olympic team Anna Meares received more than 54,000 signatures before it was taken down.
In an Instagram video,, external Gunn said she didn’t realize her appearance would “open the door to so much hate.”
On Thursday, Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) chief executive Matt Carroll said the petition “incited public hatred without any basis in fact”, adding that it was “unreasonable, misleading and bullying” ”.
The petition said Gunn and Meares, a two-time Olympic champion track cyclist, should apologize for “attempting to inflame the public and undermine the efforts of real athletes.”
Change.org said the petition was “flagged as misinformation” and removed after review.
After thanking her supporters, Gunn said: “I really appreciate their positivity and I’m excited to bring some joy into your lives – that’s all I hope for.
“Well, I went out and had a lot of fun – I did take it very seriously. I tried my best to prepare for the Olympics and I gave it my all. Really.
“I’m honored to be part of the Australian Olympic team and to be a part of Breaking’s Olympic debut.”
