Title: U.S. Gymnast Jordan Chiles Speaks Out on Stripped Bronze Medal and Online Attacks
Overwhelmed by Love and Gratitude amid Struggle
U.S. gymnast Jordan Chiles recently took to Instagram to express her gratitude for the overwhelming support she has received in the wake of the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s decision to strip her of the bronze medal she won in the floor exercise at the Paris Olympics. Chiles conveyed her appreciation for her family, teammates, coaches, fans, USAG, and the USOPC for standing by her during this difficult time.
Disappointment and Injustice: Chiles Shares Her Grief
While celebrating her Olympic achievements, Chiles received the devastating news that her bronze medal had been taken away. She believed in the appeal brought forth by USAG, which presented conclusive evidence that her score adhered to all the rules. Unfortunately, the appeal was unsuccessful, leaving Chiles feeling speechless and disappointed. She expressed that the decision felt unjust and not only impacted her but also everyone who had supported her throughout her journey.
CAS Rejects Chiles’ Appeal Despite New Evidence
The Court of Arbitration for Sport declined to hear Chiles’ appeal to retain her bronze medal, even in light of new evidence that emerged. USA Gymnastics revealed that there was video footage showing Chiles’ coach filing an inquiry about the incorrect score just 47 seconds after it was posted. Despite this, the CAS maintained their decision and did not consider the new evidence.
The Leap from Fifth to Third: Controversial Scoring Decision
Initially, Chiles had finished fifth in the individual floor exercise at the Games. However, her coaches appealed the scoring of one of the elements in her routine, which resulted in her being moved up to the bronze medal position. This leap over two Romanian gymnasts, including Ana Barbosu, who had already started celebrating her bronze, became a subject of controversy.
CAS Reinstates the Incorrect Score, Awarding Third Place to Barbosu
The International Gymnastics Federation, based on the decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport, voided the appeal made by Chiles’ coach during the event. The CAS stated that Chiles’ score was raised after the one-minute deadline, deeming the challenge too late. Consequently, Barbosu was awarded the third-place position, and the initial incorrect score of 13.666 was reinstated.
Racially Driven Attacks Online Add to the Heartbreak
Chiles also shared that she has been subjected to hurtful racially motivated messages online since the appeal process. She denounced these attacks as wrong and extremely hurtful. Despite the heartbreak, Chiles remains proud to represent her culture and her country, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to competing with integrity and upholding the values of sportsmanship and fairness.
Conclusion: Chiles Remains Resolute in the Face of Adversity
In the face of adversity, Jordan Chiles stands strong, vowing to maintain her standards and values. She remains grateful for the outpouring of love and support she has received, acknowledging the challenges she faces both in the gymnastics arena and online. Chiles’ determination to compete with integrity and represent her culture and country shines through, inspiring others and solidifying her status as a true champion.
