Romanian Gymnast Barbosu Breaks Silence on Bronze Medal Controversy

Romania's Ana Barbosu has expressed her disappointment with the handling of the bronze medal controversy at the Paris Olympics, blaming officials for the drama and calling for mutual respect among athletes.

Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu has spoken out against the handling of the bronze medal controversy at the Paris Olympics, expressing disappointment with the situation and calling for mutual respect among athletes.

Barbosu's statement came after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) ordered American Jordan Chiles to return her bronze medal, which would elevate Barbosu to the podium. However, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has since appealed the decision and claims to have evidence that the inquiry into Chiles' score was made within the time frame.

Romanian Gymnast Barbosu Breaks Silence on Bronze Medal Controversy

In an Instagram post, Barbosu expressed her thoughts and dreams for the future:

"Sabrina, Jordan, my thoughts are with you. I know what you are feeling because I've been through the same. But I know you'll come back stronger," she wrote. "I hope from deep of my heart that at the next Olympics, all three of us will share the same podium. That is my true dream."

Romanian Gymnast Barbosu Breaks Silence on Bronze Medal Controversy

Barbosu emphasized that the situation would not have occurred if officials had respected the regulations and pointed out that athletes should not be blamed for the controversy. She also condemned the hateful comments directed towards the gymnasts involved.

"The hate directed to us is painful. I wanted to end this edition of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in the spirit of Olympism, the true value of the world," she wrote.

Romanian Gymnast Barbosu Breaks Silence on Bronze Medal Controversy

Meanwhile, USA Gymnastics has stated that they have video evidence demonstrating that the inquiry was made on time. Jordan Chiles has not commented since learning of the CAS ruling and has taken a social media break.

Romanian gymnastics legend Nadia Comaneci has also spoken out, urging fans to stop attacking the gymnasts: "To all the fans around the world please STOP attacking these young ladies... it is unacceptable and cruel," she wrote on X.

Romanian Gymnast Barbosu Breaks Silence on Bronze Medal Controversy

The controversy has sparked widespread discussions about the importance of following rules and regulations, respecting the decisions made by officials, and maintaining mutual respect among athletes and fans alike.