Heartbroken Jordan Chiles Speaks Out Against ‘Unjust’ Olympics Medal Removal and Racial Attacks Online

Jordan Chiles took to social media to address the “devastating news” that her Olympic bronze medal has been revoked. Originally awarded for the women’s floor exercise, Chiles will have to return the medal, which will now be given to Romania’s Ana Barbosu, as announced by the International Olympic Committee on August 11.

Chiles expressed her shock and disappointment, stating, “While celebrating my Olympic achievements, I learned that my bronze medal had been taken away. I trusted the appeal filed by USAG, which presented clear evidence that my score adhered to all regulations. Unfortunately, this appeal was denied.” She further remarked, “I am at a loss for words.

This ruling feels deeply unjust and is a major setback, not only for me but for all who have supported my journey. The unsolicited, racially charged attacks on social media are profoundly wrong and hurtful. I have devoted myself to this sport with immense pride in representing my culture and country.”

In the women’s floor exercise final on August 5, Chiles initially received a score of 13.666, placing her fifth behind Romania’s Barbosu and Sabrina Maneca-Voinea, who both scored 13.700. Barbosu secured the bronze through a tiebreaker based on execution scores. However, a floor appeal by USA gymnastics coach Cecile Canqueteau-Landi contested the accuracy of Chiles’ score, resulting in a 0.1 adjustment that initially awarded Chiles the bronze.

The Romanian team subsequently appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), citing that the appeal from Team USA was filed one minute and four seconds past the allowed time limit. CAS sided with the Romanians, leading the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to revert to the original scores and strip Chiles of her medal.

Chiles responded by reaffirming her commitment to integrity and sportsmanship, stating, “I will always uphold the values of fair competition and strive for excellence. I have taken pride in supporting all athletes, and it has been rewarding to see others embrace authenticity.”

Facing one of her career’s toughest moments, Chiles vowed to address this challenge with the same resilience she has shown throughout her career. “I am determined to ensure that justice is served,” she added, “and I believe that in the end, those in charge will make the right decision.”

Following the medal revocation, USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee released a joint statement affirming that their original appeal was made in good faith and in compliance with FIG rules. They condemned the “utterly baseless and extremely hurtful” social media attacks against Chiles and praised her for maintaining integrity both on and off the competition floor.