Jordan Chiles Responds to Controversy Over Olympic Bronze Medal
- Jordan Chiles expresses disappointment over the controversy surrounding her Olympic bronze medal.
- She describes the situation as unjust and faces racial attacks on social media.
- Chiles remains hopeful in her fight to retain her medal.
American gymnast Jordan Chiles has expressed her dismay over the decision to strip her of the bronze medal she earned in the floor exercise at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The 23-year-old described the ruling as “unjust” and “devastating,” asserting that she believed an appeal by USA Gymnastics (USAG) would succeed, as it presented evidence supporting her score. Chiles emphasized the emotional toll of the decision, stating it impacts not only her but also her supporters. Chiles initially finished fifth in the event but was awarded a bronze after a score adjustment. However, the Romanian Gymnastics Federation challenged the validity of this adjustment, claiming that the inquiry regarding her score was submitted late, violating established rules. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld this challenge, leading to the reversion of Chiles’ score and the subsequent demand for her to return the medal. USAG has expressed disappointment and plans to pursue further appeals, including to the Swiss Federal Tribunal. In her social media response, Chiles highlighted the hurtful racially charged comments she has faced during this ordeal, calling them “wrong and extremely hurtful.” Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful that justice will prevail, stating her commitment to confronting this difficult moment with resilience. Chiles thanked her supporters and reiterated her pride in representing her culture and country throughout her gymnastics career.