Jordan Chiles, recently stripped of her bronze medal from the Paris Olympics, has publicly addressed the controversy for the first time via social media. Chiles, who initially placed fifth in the floor routine final, saw her score adjusted to bronze after her coach, Cecile Landi, filed an appeal. However, a subsequent appeal by another gymnast, who argued the U.S. appeal was submitted too late, resulted in Chiles being moved back to fifth place.
Gymnast Jordan Chiles took to social media on Thursday to publicly share her feelings for the first time since losing her bronze medal from the Paris Olympics in controversial fashion.
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Chiles took to X to share her reaction. She expressed her dismay over the decision, stating, “While celebrating my Olympic accomplishments, I was devastated to learn that my bronze medal had been taken away. I had full confidence in the appeal by USA Gymnastics, which provided clear evidence that my score was accurate according to the rules. Unfortunately, the appeal was not successful.”
Chiles continued, “This decision feels deeply unjust and is a significant blow to me and everyone who has supported my journey. The racially motivated attacks on social media are wrong and extremely hurtful. I have dedicated my heart and soul to gymnastics and am immensely proud to represent my culture and country.”
She added, “I remain committed to my values of integrity, excellence, and sportsmanship. I have always taken pride in supporting others, regardless of their team or country. Embracing authenticity and seeing others do the same has been a profound experience for me.”
‘Decision feels unjust’: Jordan Chiles breaks silence after losing Olympic bronze medal https://t.co/v8J7j2Kgsd
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Despite the setback, Chiles is determined to navigate this challenging moment with resilience. She concluded, “I will face this challenge with the same resolve as I have in the past, and I will strive to ensure that justice is served. I trust that, in the end, those in control will make the right decision.”
Key Points:
- Jordan Chiles, initially placed fifth in the floor routine final at the Paris Olympics, had her score adjusted to bronze after an appeal but was later moved back to fifth due to a late appeal issue.
- Chiles publicly addressed the situation on X, expressing her disappointment and frustration over the decision to strip her of the bronze medal.
- She criticized the racially motivated attacks on social media and reaffirmed her commitment to integrity, excellence, and sportsmanship.
- Chiles remains proud of her achievements and is dedicated to representing her culture and country.
- Despite the setback, she plans to confront the challenge with determination and hopes for a fair resolution in the end.
Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News