Jordan Chiles isn’t giving her bronze medal back as Romanian gymnast gets her own
After weeks of controversy and never-ending twists and turns, there appears to be some sort of resolution regarding the Jordan Chiles bronze medal saga.
The American will seemingly still keep her medal, according to USA Today Sports’ Christine Brennan.
Brennan wrote that there are “no plans” for Chiles to return her original bronze medal despite the fact it was determined that the United States’ challenge of Chiles’ score came subsequent to the permissible replay window.
Meanwhile, Romanian Ana Barbosu was given a bronze medal in a ceremony on Friday after the International Olympic Committee’s ruling
Team USA’s Aug. 6 appeal to have Chiles’ medal reinstated was significantly complicated because of the Court of Arbitration for Sport reportedly not reaching USA Gymnastics until three days after intended.
“We are deeply disappointed by the notification and will continue to pursue every possible avenue and appeal process, including to the Swiss Federal Tribunal, to ensure the just scoring, placement, and medal award for Jordan,” the organization posted on Monday.
The body doubled down on Tuesday, writing, “As we continue to celebrate the successes of Team USA Gymnasts on social media, know that we are still working full-time to pursue justice for Jordan.”
Chiles herself spoke out about her lingering situation for the first time on Thursday.
“I am overwhelmed by the love I have received over the past few days,” the 23-year-old wrote on social media. “I have no words. This decision feels unjust and comes as a significant blow, not just to me, but to everyone who has championed my journey.”
As a final outcome for the third-place finish in the women’s floor exercise final is still sorted out once and for all, the Olympic website lists Barbosu and her 13.700 score as sitting with bronze, and the official Team USA roster website has simultaneously revoked bronze from Chiles’ profile.
With drama persisting over a week after the event wrapped up, Chiles may have some reassurance via a promise retained from a famous celebrity.
Rapper Flavor Flav, who was in attendance at the Paris Games, has seemingly fulfilled his vow of gifting Chiles a bronze clock necklace.
