Aly Raisman Defends Jordan Chiles After Medal Controversy at Paris Games

Aly Raisman, a former Olympic gymnast, has publicly expressed her support for fellow American Jordan Chiles, who is embroiled in a medal controversy following the 2024 Olympics. Chiles initially secured a bronze medal in the women’s floor exercise, but a ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has put that medal in jeopardy. Raisman stated, “I am so devastated for her,” emphasizing that Chiles “deserves answers” regarding the situation. The controversy arose after Team USA's inquiry into Chiles' score was allegedly submitted four seconds past the one-minute deadline, leading to the CAS ruling that reinstated Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu as the bronze medalist. Raisman criticized the CAS for their decision, arguing that the integrity of the sport is at stake. She pointed out that the designated official accepted the inquiry, indicating it was submitted within the time limit. Despite the CAS ruling, USA Gymnastics has claimed to possess evidence that the appeal was lodged within the required timeframe of 47 seconds. Raisman expressed her disappointment with the situation, stating, “It’s so disappointing to me because I feel like it goes against the integrity of the sport and of the Olympics.” She remains hopeful that the governing bodies will rectify the situation and restore Chiles' medal. As the situation unfolds, Raisman’s advocacy for Chiles highlights the ongoing challenges faced by athletes in navigating the complexities of competitive gymnastics and the governing bodies that oversee the sport.