American gymnast Jordan Chiles has taken her Olympic bronze medal dispute to the Swiss Supreme Court after losing the medal following a controversial decision.
Filed Appeal with Supreme Court
Chiles, 23, initially secured third place in the floor exercise at the Paris Olympics, overtaking Romanian gymnast Ana Bărbosu after her score was revised, according to Ziare.
However, the Romanian team challenged the revision with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and won the case, arguing that Chiles had requested a score review four seconds too late. As a result, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) awarded the bronze medal to Bărbosu.
Chiles’ legal team has now filed an appeal with the Swiss Supreme Court, claiming they have video evidence proving she submitted her request on time.
Her attorneys also raised concerns over a “serious conflict of interest,” pointing out that the head judge involved in the case had previously worked as an adviser to Romania.
Everything was Taken Away From Me
"In light of these undeniable issues, we are requesting the court to restore Jordan’s rightful score," said her lawyers from Gibson Dunn. They emphasized that the integrity of the Olympic process must uphold fairness.
Chiles’ appeal is backed by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, with her legal team calling the decision to revoke her medal "unjust."
The gymnast also spoke out about the racial abuse she received on social media following the incident, adding to her distress. "I poured my heart and soul into this sport, and I'm proud to represent my culture and country," Chiles wrote online.
The Swiss Supreme Court’s decision is expected within four to six months. Meanwhile, Chiles continues to express her disillusionment with the sport, stating, “I feel like everything was taken away from me.”
