Heartwarming Reaction from Jordan Chiles’ Parents after Balance Beam Fall
Named after fellow sports great Michael Jordan, Jordan Chiles started gymnastics at the age of 6 and quickly progressed through the levels of competition, accumulating trophies along the way.
Despite her achievements, the 23-year-old often felt unwelcome.
“Every time I entered a competition, I wondered, ‘What criticism will I face this time?’” Chiles shared in a July 2024 interview with ELLE. “I experienced racial discrimination. I was repeatedly told, ‘You don’t fit the typical gymnast image. You look masculine. You’re too muscular.’”
Feeling unwanted in gymnastics, Chiles contemplated leaving the sport. However, in 2018, Biles invited her to train at her gym in Texas.
“I wish I could erase that part of my past,” reflected the athlete from Washington, “but those experiences shaped me into a stronger, more confident individual and helped me discover my true self. Rekindling my passion took time, though.”
Fast forward to the 2020 Olympics, where both athletes competed together after Biles withdrew from the team final, ultimately winning the team silver medal.
Chiles, who also represents UCLA, made headlines with her perfect 10 performance at the 2023 NCAA Championships, featuring a 90s hip-hop routine. Her Beyoncé-inspired performance secured her a spot at the 2024 Olympics.