Jordan Chiles speaks out after Olympic bronze medal stripped: ‘I have no words’
Jordan Chiles has broken her silence on being stripped of her bronze medal at the Paris Olympics. In a post on X, the Olympic gymnast said “I have no words” and the “decision feels unjust.”
“I am overwhelmed by the love I have received over the past few days,” Chiles’ statement states. “I am also incredibly grateful to my family, teammates, coaches, fans USAG and the USOPC for their unwavering support during this difficult time. While celebrating my Olympic accomplishments, I heard the devastating news that my bronze medal had been stripped away. I had confidence in the appeal brought by USAG, who gave conclusive evidence that my score followed all the rules. This appeal was unsuccessful.
“I have no words. This decision feels unjust and comes as a significant blow, not just to me, but to everyone who has championed my journey. To add to the heartbreak, the unprompted racially driven attacks on social media are wrong and extremely hurtful. I’ve poured my heart and soul into this sport and I am so proud to represent my culture and my country.”
Last week, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that Chiles’ coach was four seconds late to request an inquiry to review her score during the floor exercise final. The inquiry was accepted in time, however, and found Chiles should have received a higher score. It led to her finishing third instead of fifth in the event, earning her a bronze medal.
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Jordan Chiles confident officials ‘will do the right thing’
The CAS then reinstated the initial score, and the International Olympic Committee announced it was asking for Chiles to return the medal so it could be given to Romanian gymnast Ana Bărbosu. USA Gymnastics is fighting the ruling as it has video evidence that Chiles’ coach submitted the inquiry in time.
“I am now confronted with one of the most challenging moments in my career,” Chiles continued. Believe me when I say I had many. I will approach this challenge as I have others – and will make every effort to ensure that justice is done. I believe that at the end of this journey, the people in control will do the right thing.”
Despite the ruling from the CAS, Chiles didn’t leave the Paris Olympics empty-handed. The 23-year-old won a gold medal in the team event. She also won a silver medal in the same event in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.