SYDNEY, SEPTEMBER 22: Fleeing French star Marie-Jose Perec received a tongue lashing from the Australian press today as they accused her of “running scared” from an anticipated class with hometown favourite Cathy Freeman.

Mademoiselle La Chicken, Sydney tabloid The Daily Telegraph dubbed the reclusive Atlanta double gold medallist. “Perec flees before facing Cathy.”

The tabloid continued its assault calling her ill-prepared and accusing her of running scared from a showdown with Freeman, the Atlanta silver medallist and the fastest woman over 400m so far this year.

“The abrupt decision of Perec to leave Australia seems certain to rob one of the Games’ premier event of some of its excitement,” the tabloid said.