American gymnast Jordan Chiles is facing one of the most challenging moments of her career after losing her Olympic bronze medal in the floor exercise to Romanian gymnast Ana Bărbosu.
Devastated over Decision
The medal was initially awarded to Chiles after a contest at the Paris Olympics, but then revoked following a successful appeal by Bărbosu to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
According to Digi24 the appeal centered on a technicality: the American team’s protest regarding the floor exercise results was filed four seconds after the one-minute deadline imposed by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG).
Chiles expressed her devastation over the decision in an emotional Instagram post, describing it as a significant blow not just to her, but to all who have supported her journey.
"This decision feels deeply unfair and is a significant blow not only to me but to everyone who supported my journey," the 23-year-old gymnast wrote.
Racist Attacks Online
The news has also led to unexpected and painful racist attacks on social media, further compounding her distress. "In addition to the heartbreak, the racist attacks on social media are wrong and extremely painful," she added.
Despite the ruling, Chiles remains determined to fight for her medal. She hopes that the authorities will reconsider the decision and ensure that justice is served.
"I will approach this challenge as I have others—giving it my all to ensure justice is served. I believe that in the end, those in control will do the right thing," Chiles asserted.
Ana Bărbosu is now set to receive the bronze medal during a ceremony at the Olympic House in Bucharest, a significant moment for the Romanian gymnast.
