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Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles speaks after being stripped of his bronze medal
Jordan Chiles released a statement on social media responding to the "devastating news" that she had been stripped of her Olympic bronze medal. The American gymnast was originally set to take home the medal in the women's floor exercise competition. But the International Olympic Committee announced on August 11 that Chiles would have to return the medal, which would be awarded to Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu.
"While celebrating my Olympic achievements, I received the devastating news that my bronze medal had been stripped," Chiles wrote. "I had confidence in the appeal filed by USAG, which presented compelling evidence that my score met all the rules. This appeal was unsuccessful."
"I am at a loss for words," she added. "This decision feels so unfair and is a huge blow, not just to me but to everyone who has supported my journey. To add to the sadness, the uncalled for racist attacks on social media are wrong and extremely hurtful. I have put my heart and soul into this sport and I am so proud to represent my culture and my country."
