Raisman Calls Bronze Medal Controversy "Devastating" for Chiles

American Olympic gymnastics great Aly Raisman expressed her support for Jordan Chiles, who has been embroiled in a bronze medal controversy at the Paris Games. Raisman called the situation "devastating" and criticized the handling of the inquiry that led to Chiles' potentially losing her medal.

In the wake of the Paris Olympics, American Olympic gymnastics great Aly Raisman has condemned the bronze medal controversy surrounding Jordan Chiles, calling it "devastating" and "unfair." Chiles may have to give up her bronze medal in the floor exercise, a decision that has sparked outrage and led to an ongoing dispute between the USA and Romanian gymnastics federations.

Raisman, a three-time Olympic medalist, spoke out about the controversy during an appearance on NBC's "Today." She expressed her empathy for Chiles and criticized the process that has put her medal in jeopardy.

Raisman Calls Bronze Medal Controversy "Devastating" for Chiles

"This is just so heartbreaking, and I am just so gutted for Jordan," Raisman said. "I can't even imagine what this past week has been like for Jordan and the other athletes involved. This is completely devastating."

Raisman highlighted the fact that gymnasts dedicate their entire lives to their sport and that it is supposed to be a time of celebration. She argued that it is unfair for Chiles to have to give up her medal, especially after the inquiry that led to the score change was missed by four seconds.

Raisman Calls Bronze Medal Controversy "Devastating" for Chiles

"I think it's so unfair. It's so cruel. And I don't think Jordan should have to give her medal back," Raisman said. "The IOC has given more than one medal before, and I think they should do that now – it's awful."

Raisman, who has experienced similar controversies in the past, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in gymnastics. She called for the organizations responsible to prioritize the mental health of athletes and to prevent such situations from occurring again.

Raisman Calls Bronze Medal Controversy "Devastating" for Chiles

"The organizations that are in charge of this really need to look at the athletes' mental health and how much this is affecting them and how cruel it is to take a medal away from someone," Raisman said. "It's just unfathomable to me."

The unfolding drama has cast a shadow over the Paris Games and highlighted the need for a more equitable and transparent scoring system in gymnastics. Raisman's voice and support for Chiles have resonated with athletes and fans who believe that the process should not be allowed to overshadow the achievements of those who have worked tirelessly for their dreams.