Jordan Chiles breaks social media hiatus days after bronze medal controversy at the Paris Olympics
Jordan Chiles finally ended her social media break days after the Paris Olympics' bronze medal controversy. The gymnast was stripped of her bronze medal days after winning it for the floor exercise event.
Chiles was initially placed fifth in the event and then jumped to third place behind Rebecca Andrade and Simone Biles after a special appeal inquiry. However, days after this decision, the Court of Arbitration for Sport scrapped the inquiry, stating that US coach Cecile Landi had made her appeal four seconds late. This subsequently led to the restoration of original podium ranks, with Ana Barbosu in third and Sabrina Maneca Voinea in fourth place.
Following this incident, Chiles took a break from social media, citing mental health concerns. She took to her Instagram stories and wrote:
"I am taking this time and removing myself from social media for my mental health. Thank you."
Days after this, the 23-year-old made her comeback on social media with a post. She shared a carousel of pictures that showcased her donning a magnificent black-colored bikini, which was paired with head gear and sunglasses. She also flaunted her nails in the pictures and added the caption:
"Golden paradise."
Jordan Chiles opened up about losing the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics
Jordan Chiles spoke about losing her bronze medal to Romania's gymnast Ana Barbosua a few days after the Paris Olympics concluded on August 11. The American gymnast took to her social media and shared a lengthy statement, expressing her dismay over the controversy that took her Olympic medal.
She called the news 'devastating' and also reflected on getting 'racially driven' hate on social media during her tough times.
"While celebrating my Olympic accomplishments, I heard the devastating news that my bronze medal had been stripped away," wrote Jordan Chiles. "I had confidence in the appeal brought by USAG, who gave conclusive evidence that my score followed all the rules. This appeal was unsuccessful. I have no words. This decision feels unjust and comes as a significant blow, not just to me, but to everyone who has championed my journey."
She added:
"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."
The gymnast further called this time challenging and said:
"I am now confronted with one of the most challenging moments of my career. Believe me when I say I have had many."
Jordan Chiles will next be seen competing on the Gold Over American Tour alongside Simone Biles and other Olympic gymnasts.