Jordan Chiles’ Emotional Journey After Olympic Controversy

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Jordan Chiles remains undeterred by time zone changes and the emotional turbulence that followed her experience at the 2024 Olympics. While preparing for a gymnastics competition near the University of Maryland, Chiles reflects on her demanding schedule, which included a Time Magazine photo shoot and a day of sightseeing in Washington, D.C.

At the Maryland gymnastics meet, the 23-year-old athlete delivered an impressive performance, scoring a perfect 10.0 on the uneven bars. The achievement marked the second perfect score of the NCAA season and thrilled the record crowd of 7,287 at Xfinity Center. Yet, despite the applause from fans, Chiles continues to grapple with the ongoing legal disputes stemming from her Olympic experience, a whirlwind of flights, appearances, and academic commitments.

“Since I was going, going, going I didn’t have to think about anything,” Chiles said. “But at the same time, since I wasn’t processing it, it was just in my head. Building up.”

Initially awarded a bronze medal in the Olympics’ floor exercise final, confusion set in over an appeal that altered scores. Chiles’ coach, Cécile Canqueteau-Landi, lodged an inquiry to change her score, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled it arrived four seconds too late. Consequently, Ana Bărbosu from Romania was awarded the bronze instead. Chiles’ legal team has since escalated the issue to the Swiss Federal Tribunal, arguing that evidence proves the inquiry was timely.

“I have the medal. The medal is mine,” Chiles insists, despite the uncertainty surrounding the appeal process, which could take months. “Everything was in the time it needed to be.”

Throughout the latter half of 2024, Chiles faced the emotional aftermath from the Games—a situation that led her to struggle with her identity, even as she participated in the Gold Over America Tour with fellow gymnasts. “Those days were the hardest of my life,” she recalled, emphasizing a deep internal conflict as she coped with her perceived failure while attempting to celebrate her successes.

As Chiles embarked on her college journey at UCLA, she channeled her energy into gymnastics, recently claiming another perfect score against Michigan State. Her performances are noted for their exceptional choreography and expressive elements, showcasing her growth both as an athlete and an individual.

“It’s hard to watch her without a smile on your face because you see the joy,” UCLA coach Janelle McDonald remarked. “You see the effort.”

In addition to her gymnastics success, Chiles has made headlines for her recent memoir, *I’m That Girl*, published on March 4, which details her struggles, including the verbal abuse she faced from a former coach. The book reflects her journey towards self-discovery and resilience.

Chiles has not ruled out a return to the Olympics in 2028 but remains focused on her current commitments. “I’m just going to see what happens,” she said. “That’s three years from now and two years after I graduate.”

Amid the ongoing appeal and a busy collegiate season, Chiles’ spirit remains unwavering. “I am still that girl and will forever be that girl,” she stated confidently.