Jordan Chiles throws first pitch at Mets vs Reds game

On a Friday night at Citi Field in Queens, Jordan Chiles made a notable public appearance by throwing the first pitch before the New York Mets faced the Cincinnati Reds. This event marked one of her first high-profile outings since the emotional turmoil surrounding her Olympic bronze medal loss in Paris. Chiles, 23, received warm applause from the crowd, highlighting her continued support from fans despite recent challenges. Earlier that day, Chiles practiced her pitching skills with Mets star Pete Alonso, showcasing her determination to embrace this moment. The game was crucial for the Mets as they were competing for a playoff spot against the Atlanta Braves, adding to the significance of the occasion. Chiles' recent heartbreak stemmed from a controversial ruling regarding her performance in the floor final at the Paris Olympics. Initially ranked fifth, she was awarded a bronze medal after a successful appeal by her coach, which was later overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. This decision left her and her supporters devastated, especially as the medal was reallocated to Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu, who had already celebrated her victory. The emotional fallout from this incident has been profound, with former gymnast Laurie Hernandez expressing her sympathy for Chiles. USA Gymnastics has pledged to challenge the ruling, citing critical errors in the arbitration process. Chiles has taken a step back from social media, reflecting the weight of her experience in the public eye.