A Family’s Plea for Prayers and Support as Olympic Controversy Sparks Racist Backlash
In the wake of the Paris 2024 Olympics, a controversy surrounding Jordan Chiles’ bronze medal in the individual floor exercise has ignited a storm of emotions, leading to allegations of racism and a plea for prayers from her sister, Jazmin Chiles.
The controversy began on Saturday, August 10, when the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that Chiles’ third-place finish was granted in error. Initially, Chiles’ performance had placed her just off the podium. However, after Team USA filed an inquiry, her score was adjusted, propelling her to a bronze medal position ahead of Romanian gymnasts Ana Maria Bărbosu and Sabina Maneca-Voinea. The Romanians later appealed the decision, citing that the U.S. team had exceeded the time limit for challenges by four seconds. CAS ruled in favor of Romania, suggesting that the inquiry should not have been granted.
Jazmin Chiles took to Instagram to express her frustration and anger, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the decision. “In the history of the Olympics, no one has ever been stripped of their medal for this,” Jazmin wrote. “There are only two ways you can be stripped of your medal: cheating or doping. She did neither.”
Despite the ruling, Jordan Chiles has not been officially stripped of her bronze medal. Instead, the Romanian team has proposed that all three gymnasts share the third-place spot. The final decision rests with the International Olympic Committee, which will determine how to proceed.
Beyond the technicalities of the ruling, the Chiles family has been deeply affected by the backlash. According to Jazmin and their mother, Gina Chiles, the controversy has unleashed a torrent of racist comments directed at Jordan and her family. Gina shared her distress on X, formerly known as Twitter, condemning the hateful messages her daughter has received. “The racist disgusting comments are still happening in 2024,” Gina wrote. “I’m tired of people who say it no longer exists. My daughter is a highly decorated Olympian with the biggest heart and a level of sportsmanship that is unmatched … and she’s being called disgusting things.”
In response to the overwhelming negativity, Jordan Chiles announced that she would be stepping away from social media to focus on her mental health. “I am taking this time and removing myself from social media for my mental health,” Jordan wrote on her Instagram Story. “Thank you.”
Jazmin, standing firmly by her sister’s side, asked for prayers and support for their family during this challenging time. “I love you, baby sis. And I got yo back no matter what,” she wrote in a heartfelt message.
As the world watches and waits for the IOC’s decision, the Chiles family’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of racism in today’s society. Their story highlights the emotional toll that public scrutiny and online hate can have, even on the most celebrated athletes. Through it all, the Chiles family remains united, calling for understanding, support, and above all, prayers as they navigate this difficult chapter.
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