Olivia Dunne breaks her silence and justifies her strange way of speaking at Kentucky Oaks

Olivia Dunne has addressed the backlash following her appearance at the 2025 Kentucky Oaks, where her delivery of the ceremonial "Riders Up" call was widely mocked on social media as she makes an emotional revelation.

The 22-year-old gymnast, known for her elite athletic achievements and massive online following, took to TikTok to clarify what went wrong during the moment that many viewers called "uncomfortable."

Dunne's appearance at Churchill Downs on Friday was part of the traditional festivities leading up to the Kentucky Derby and s part of the pre-race ceremony for the Oaks-a premier event for fillies in American horse racing-Dunne was given the honor of announcing "Riders Up."

However, her performance quickly became the subject of ridicule online, with many criticizing her pacing, gestures, and apparent discomfort and in response to a comment on TikTok that described her call as "a tough watch," Dunne explained the situation in a brief but revealing message.

"I couldn't hear myself because of the echo of the microphone," Dunne wrote, alongside a crying emoji.

Observers noted that Dunne appeared to read from a teleprompter, paused awkwardly between words, and used expressive hand movements that some found distracting.

Once she completed the call, the camera remained on her as she looked off-stage with a visibly uneasy expression.

The crowd offered little audible reaction, and the moment quickly went viral and left her feeling embarrassed on social media in the wake.

However, she did catch the eye as she arrived in a pink dress with rose-accented straps and a signature race-day headpiece. For the Kentucky Derby itself, she changed into a white polka dot dress with black mesh trim, paired with a white hat adorned with a black bow and a Chanel handbag.

The Kentucky Derby drew several other high-profile attendees, including Simone Biles and Aaron Rodgers. Biles, who was given the "Riders Up" duty for the Derby itself, also faced criticism online for her delivery.

This year's Derby concluded with Sovereignty claiming first place, followed by Journalism and Baeza in second and third, respectively.

Dunne heads to retirement

Dunne's Kentucky Oaks appearance came during a period of transition in her career. Just weeks earlier, on April 21, she had officially announced her retirement from competitive gymnastics.

The senior LSU gymnast, who helped lead her team to the 2024 NCAA team title, the first in program history, shared the news through a video montage posted across her social media channels.

"Gymnastics, you have filled my heart and shaped be a part of me," Dunne said. "You've shaped me into the person I am today, creating memories and sisterhoods that will last a life .

"You are my first love."