US Gymnast Chiles Slams Racism Over Medal Controversy

US gymnast Jordan Chiles has revealed she received racist abuse online after officials stripped her of the bronze medal she won at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) upgraded Romania’s Ana Barbosu from fourth to third place in the women’s floor final following a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). This change led to Chiles, 23, losing her bronze medal, which she initially earned after her coach Cecile Landi’s inquiry raised her difficulty rating.

Chiles described the ruling as “unjust and a significant blow” and condemned the racist abuse she endured during this period. She voiced her frustration on X (formerly Twitter), condemning the unprompted racial attacks and emphasizing her pride in representing her culture and country. Chiles, part of the gold-winning US team with Simone Biles, expressed her disappointment over the situation.

Despite Chiles’ appeal and USA Gymnastics’ efforts to have CAS reconsider the decision, CAS denied the request. USA Gymnastics argued that new video evidence proved the challenge was filed within the proper timeframe. However, CAS rejected the appeal, dismissing claims of bias and connections to Romania. Chiles remains hopeful for justice and vowed to continue pursuing the matter.

USA Gymnastics has indicated it will keep appealing the decision, claiming incorrect email addresses used by CAS led to their late notification about the case. Chiles concluded by asserting her commitment to seeking justice despite the challenges she faces. The women’s floor final occurred on August 5 and Romania filed its appeal the next day. USA Gymnastics learned of the case on August 9, missing the initial deadline to submit objections.