Jordan Chiles, who was stripped of her gymnastics bronze medal by the International Olympic Committee, spoke out for the first time today in a social media post.
Chiles finished fifth in the floor exercise final at the Paris Olympics, but her coach Cecile Landy appealed. Her score was adjusted to move her to bronze. However, a subsequent appeal by the gymnast who was denied resulted in a ruling that the United States’ appeal was four seconds late, and Chiles was therefore moved back to fifth place.
Threats and meetings continue over the fate of the eventual medalist, and Chiles is said to still be clinging to the bronze medal.
Today I addressed the controversy over X.
“While celebrating my Olympic achievements, I heard the devastating news that I had been stripped of my bronze medal,” Chiles wrote. “I was confident that USA Gymnastics’ appeal, which provided conclusive evidence that my result was in compliance with all rules, was unsuccessful.”
“I can’t find the right words to express this,” Chiles continued. “I feel this decision is unfair and a huge blow, not only to me, but to everyone who has supported my journey. What makes me even more sad is that the unjustified racist attacks on social media are wrong and hurtful. I have given my all to this sport and I am very proud to represent my culture and country.”
“I will never back down from my values of competing fairly, striving for excellence, and upholding the values of sportsmanship and the rules that dictate fairness. I have been proud to cheer for everyone regardless of team or country. Finding joy again has been a cultural shift and I love seeing others embrace it. I feel like I have given everyone permission to be themselves.
“I am now facing one of the most challenging moments of my career. Believe me when I say that I have been through many challenges. I will deal with this challenge as I have dealt with others – and I will do everything I can to ensure that justice is served. I believe that at the end of this journey, the people who are in charge will do the right thing.”
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