Simone Biles defends Jordan Childs in her quest for “justice.”
U.S. Olympic gymnast Chiles is embroiled in a controversy over her bronze medal in the floor exercise at the Paris Olympics, with an administrative tug-of-war ongoing over whether the medal belongs to Chiles or to Romanian gymnast Ana-Maria Barbos.
“We saw what you did.” Biles told People magazine:Of Chiles, he said: “It’s unfortunate because something like this has never happened before, but we would love for all three girls to win medals and unfortunately that’s not how it works in gymnastics.”
Biles concluded, “Do I believe they followed the correct process to reach this sentence? No, and that’s why we will continue to seek justice for Jordan and support and encourage her.”
Barbos was initially awarded the bronze medal, but after an appeal by the U.S. team, the Chilean athlete was given a higher score.
It was later ruled that the U.S. team’s protest had not been timed, but USA Gymnastics maintained that it had been timed.
The Romanian side proposed to split the prize money between Chile’s Barbos and Romania’s third gymnast, Sabrina Maneca-Boinea, who scored the controversial point.
In an interview with People magazine, Biles continued to defend her teammate and tried to voice pent-up frustration.
“We’ve been FaceTime and texting and just being girls.” Biles, 27, told People magazine:“I was talking to her one day and I said, ‘Look, Jordan, you have to feel all of these emotions. Don’t let these emotions get in the way. This is the healthiest way to let it all out.'”
Earlier this month, Chiles recounted the story behind his medal bid.
“I am at a loss for words. I feel this decision is unfair and a huge blow not only to me, but to all who have supported me along my journey,” she said in a lengthy statement.
“What’s even more heartbreaking is the racist attacks on social media that are wrong and extremely hurtful. I have given my all to this sport and am proud to represent my country.”
Chiles is reportedly in line to retain his bronze medal.
