Paris Olympics: Gymnastics Drama Resolved by Court of Arbitration for Sport
ICARO Media Group
Title: Court of Arbitration for Sport Rules on Gymnastics Controversy at Paris Olympics
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has delivered a ruling regarding the contentious issue surrounding gymnast Jordan Chiles' score in the floor exercise final at the Paris Olympics. The CAS decision states that the initial inquiry made by the USA over Chiles' score was filed after the one-minute deadline, rendering it without effect. Consequently, Chiles' score will revert to its original 13.666, placing her in fifth position. The impact on the bronze medal awarded to Chiles remains unclear.
The gymnastics competition on Monday concluded with a twist of drama as Romanian gymnast Ana Bărbosu believed she had secured the bronze medal with a score of 13.700. Chiles, whose initial score was 13.666, successfully challenged the difficulty score, obtaining an extra 0.1, propelling her into third place behind gold medalist Rebeca Andrade and American teammate Simone Biles.
However, CAS ruled that the inquiry made on behalf of Chiles was lodged after the one-minute deadline specified in the regulations, deeming it invalid. The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) will now determine the final ranking of the competition, leaving Chiles' medal in uncertainty. CNN has reached out to FIG for clarification on whether Chiles' medal will be revoked.
In response to the CAS ruling, USA Gymnastics and the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee expressed their devastation, highlighting that the inquiry into Chiles' routine was filed in good faith and in accordance with FIG rules. They also condemned the baseless and hurtful attacks Chiles has endured on social media.
Meanwhile, the Romanian Gymnastic Federation (RGF) acknowledged the CAS decision, stating, "With one eye we laugh, with one we cry," as it was ruled that Bărbosu should be awarded the bronze medal. The RGF congratulated both gymnasts for their noteworthy performance at the Paris Olympics.
Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu previously announced his refusal to attend the Olympics closing ceremony in protest against the treatment of Romanian gymnasts in the floor exercise final. Ciolacu criticized the judges for their handling of the event, where Bărbosu finished fourth following the turn of events involving Jordan Chiles' routine. Additionally, Sabrina Maneca-Voinea incurred a 0.1 point penalty for allegedly stepping out of bounds, though it appeared otherwise. Ciolacu described the situation as dishonorable and questioned the integrity of the competition's organization.
Chiles, on her Instagram story, posted four breaking heart emojis and announced her decision to take a break from social media for the sake of her mental health.
As the gymnastics controversy unfolds, the Paris Olympics continues to captivate millions around the world, prompting discussions on fair play, rule interpretation, and the emotional toll experienced by the athletes.