“Jordan Chiles’ Sister Speaks Out on Medal Controversy: Racism and Legal Disputes Surround Gymnast’s Bronze Win”
Jordan Chiles’ sister, Jazmin Chiles, has expressed her frustration over the ongoing controversy surrounding Jordan’s bronze medal win. On August 10, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that Chiles had been mistakenly awarded a third-place finish in the individual floor exercise. In response, Jazmin took to Instagram Story to criticize the situation, calling it unprecedented in Olympic history.
“No one has ever had their medal stripped in Olympic history for this reason,” Jazmin wrote. “Medals are only taken away for cheating or doping—neither of which Jordan did.”
Jordan Chiles initially won third place over Romanian gymnasts Ana Maria Bărbosu and Sabina Maneca-Voinea after a scoring inquiry, which resulted in her securing a podium spot. However, the Romanian team contested the decision, arguing that Team USA had missed the challenge deadline by just four seconds. The CAS agreed with the appeal, stating the challenge was late.
Jazmin pointed out the seemingly minor error, saying, “Four seconds. Her bronze was taken away over four seconds that wouldn’t have mattered if the judges had done their job.” She further highlighted the broader issue, adding, “Racism is real, it exists, it is alive and well.”
It’s important to note that Jordan Chiles has not been officially stripped of her bronze medal yet. The Romanian team has requested that all three gymnasts share third place, but the final decision rests with the International Olympic Committee.
The controversy has sparked a wave of racist comments targeting Jordan and her family. Chiles’ mother, Gina, took to X on August 9 to condemn the ongoing racial attacks. “The racist and disgusting comments are still happening in 2024,” Gina wrote. “People who claim racism no longer exists are wrong. My daughter, a highly decorated Olympian with an unmatched level of sportsmanship, is being subjected to vile remarks.”
In response to the backlash, Jordan Chiles announced she would be taking a break from social media for her mental health, sharing on Instagram Story, “I am taking this time and removing myself from social media for my mental health. Thank you.”
Jazmin has called for “prayers” for her family as they navigate the intense scrutiny and online hate. “I love you, baby sis. And I’ve got your back no matter what,” she wrote.