Former Russian figure skater Irina Rodnina is an Olympic hero in her home country. Rodnina was one of the two people who were given the honor of lighting the Olympic torch in Sochi last Friday. In addition to being internationally known for her decorated figure skating career, Rodnina also made headlines back in September for tweeting a racist photo of the Obamas.
Rodnina was criticized at the time, but she defended herself by saying she was simply exhibiting her right to “freedom of speech.” For whatever reason, she decided to apologize on Monday and claim she was hacked.
I respect the Obama family and apologize for not clearly stating earlier that I don't support the tweeted photo or racism in any form. (1/2)
— Irina Rodnina (@IRodnina) February 10, 2014
My account was hacked and I should have shown better judgement in my initial response and handling of the event. (2/2)
— Irina Rodnina (@IRodnina) February 10, 2014
Hacking is a horrible excuse to begin with, let alone using it five months later after basically refusing to apologize the first time around. If Rodnina was hacked, she undoubtedly would have said that from the start. Since Twitter hacking is pretty damn close to a mythical concept anyway, we know that’s not what happened. At least she finally apologized.
H/T Deadspin
