Can you believe that a single ‘unfollow’ on Instagram could spark drama? Just look at Rebeca Andrade-Young, a Brazilian gymnast who made history by becoming the first Brazilian woman to win four Olympic medals, but despite her success, her childhood hero, who’s a former gymnast, unfollowed her on Instagram. This led to fans going wild, wondering if something had happened between them—was it a mistake or on purpose?

Daiane dos Santos, a legend in Brazilian artistic gymnastics and a three-time Olympian (2004, 2008, 2012), is a beloved figure in the sport. Known for her talent and charm, she has a deep connection with her fans. So, when Santos unfollowed Rebeca Andrade on Instagram, it set off a storm of speculations; some thought it was just a case of Spring-cleaning her account, while others were convinced there was more to the story.

But Daiane wasn’t about to let the rumors spread unchecked. She promptly handled the situation by clarifying that there were no hard feelings between her and Rebeca. In fact, Daiane criticized the media for exaggerating the issue, highlighting their tendency to sensationalize incidents into drama. Daiane made it clear by posting a video detailing the situation accurately, where she mentioned that Rebeca had reached out to her upon noticing that it appeared Daiane was no longer following her.

“Anyone who knows me knows I’m pretty tech-savvy and chill with all this internet stuff,” Daiane explained, clarifying that she didn’t unfollow Rebeca intentionally but that it was likely a glitch with Instagram. “Rebeca messaged me saying she noticed it, and I didn’t know it was happening, but it was true. I think it was Instagram’s fault,” she added.

While Daiane ended the video affirming that there were no problems between them, she also mentioned how social media tends to blow issues out of proportion, advising everyone to maintain a sense of perspective. But at the same time, did you know Daiane dos Santos has been a source of inspiration for Rebeca since she was just four years old?

Rebeca Andrade’s role model inspired her gymnastics dream

Rebeca faced challenges while growing up in a favela inhabited by her mother and seven siblings; the daily struggle was real just to make ends meet each day. Despite the hardship of walking long hours to reach gymnastics practice, Andrade’s exceptional talent shone through; moving to Rio opened up new horizons for her and marked the beginning of her successful career journey. She purchased an apartment for her family—a significant turning point in their lives. And throughout this journey, she always credited Daiane dos Santos as a key influence in shaping her path to success.

“I have Daiane dos Santos like this for me,” Rebeca shared. Daiane was more than just a gymnastics icon to her; she was the person who made Rebeca believe that success was possible. “I know how important it is to have someone to look up to,” she explained. Rebeca was even affectionately called ‘Daianinha de Guarulhos’, inspired by the athlete Daiane dos Santos as a tribute to her greatness.

Her initial coach, Monica Barroso dos Anjos, still reminisces about the time Rebeca entered the gym with a reserved demeanor that hid her remarkable talent within. “When I asked her to perform a move, I immediately saw incredible talent,” Monica shared fondly, adding, “She just needed a bit of polishing.” Since that instant, it became evident that Rebeca was destined for success. Now being a top-tier gymnast herself,​ Rebeca Andrade finds satisfaction in as she sets the standard for others to look up to.

“I really like to be that reference. It’s important for kids, teens, and even adults to see someone they can mirror. I always try to be the best I can so people can continue looking up to me,” Rebeca Andrade noted, now aspiring to be a source of inspiration for the generation, just as Daiane was for her.