Greek Olympian Voula Papachristou kicked out of Games for tweet

Greek triple jumper Voula Papachristou was expelled from the Olympics by her country because of a tweet that was deemed racist, according to reports.

“The Hellenic Olympic Committee said her posts mocking African immigrants and expressing support for a far-right party went against the Olympic spirit,” reports the BBC.

In a statement, Papachristou apologized and called the tweet an ”unfortunate and tasteless joke.”

“I would like to express my heartfelt apologies for the unfortunate and tasteless joke I published on my personal Twitter account,” the statement said. “I am very sorry and ashamed for the negative responses I triggered, since I never wanted to offend anyone, or to encroach human rights.

“My dream is connected to the Olympic Games and I could not possibly participate if I did not respect their values. Therefore, I could never believe in discrimination between human beings and races.

“I would like to apologize to all my friends and fellow athletes, who I may have insulted or shamed, the National Team, as well as the people and companies who support my athletic career. Finally, I would like to apologize to my coach and my family.”

It is the first time an athlete has been kicked out of the Olympics for social media use.