Jordan Chiles, stripped of her bronze medal in gymnastics by the International Olympic Committee, spoke out for the first time today in a social media post.
Chiles initially finished fifth in the floor routine final at the Paris Olympics. But her coach, Cecile Landi, filed an appeal, and her score was adjusted to move into bronze medal position. However, a subsequent appeal by the gymnast who was passed saw a ruling that the U.S. appeal was made four seconds too late, thus moving Chiles back to fifth.
Threats and meetings are still flying over the status of the medal’s ultimate winner, and Chiles is reportedly still holding onto the bronze.
Today, she addressed the controversy on X.
“While celebrating my Olympic accomplishments, I heard the devastating news that my bronze medal had been stripped away,” Chiles wrote. “I had confidence in the appeal brought by (USA Gymnastics), who gave conclusive evidence that my score followed all the rules. This appeal was unsuccessful.”
“I have no words,” Chiles continued. “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.
“I will never waver from my values of competing with integrity, striving for excellence, upholding the values of sportsmanship and the rules that dictate fairness. I have taken pride in cheering on everyone regardless of team or country. Finding joy again has been a culture shift and I love seeing others embrace it. I feel like I have given everyone permission to be authentic to who they are.
“I am now confronted with one of the most challenging moments of my career. Believe me when I say I have 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.”
— Jordan Chiles (@ChilesJordan) August 15, 2024
The post US Gymnast Jordan Chiles Speaks Out On Being Stripped Of Bronze Medal appeared first on Deadline.
