In a thrilling start to the collegiate gymnastics season, Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles showcased an electrifying floor routine at UCLA’s opening meet. The event featured a trio of formidable teams: UCLA, Oregon State, and California. Despite finishing in last place with a score of 195.250, Chiles' performance was nothing short of spectacular. Her routine, set to Prince's "Let’s Go Crazy," included playful nods to the legendary artist through vibrant choreography and a shimmering purple leotard. The crowd was captivated by her precision and artistry, cheering loudly as she flawlessly executed each move. Chiles also competed in vault and bars, earning impressive scores of 9.900 on both events. The meet also marked a reunion between Chiles and her Olympic teammate Jade Carey, who now competes for Oregon State.
Chiles Shines with Artistic Brilliance at UCLA’s Season Kickoff
In the crisp winter air of early January, the Pauley Pavilion hosted an exhilarating competition that brought together some of the nation’s top collegiate gymnasts. On Saturday, January 4th, Jordan Chiles, the 23-year-old Olympian, took center stage at the American Gold Women’s Collegiate Classic. Competing alongside her Bruins teammates, Chiles unveiled a mesmerizing floor routine that left the audience in awe. Set to the iconic tune of "Let’s Go Crazy" by Prince, Chiles incorporated playful guitar gestures and wore a dazzling purple outfit that sparkled under the lights. Each landing was met with thunderous applause, and upon completing her routine, Chiles joyfully embraced her coach, Janelle McDonald.
Chiles’ performance extended beyond just the floor exercise. She participated in three events—floor, vault, and uneven bars—and delivered stellar performances across the board. Her vault, in particular, was a highlight, earning her a near-perfect 9.90 score. Despite the team’s overall finish, Chiles’ individual brilliance shone through, earning praise from fans and fellow athletes alike. One commenter noted how Chiles is “bringing back artistry to gymnastics,” while another described her routine as “incredible and super fun to watch.”
The meet also served as a poignant reunion for Chiles and her former Olympic teammate Jade Carey, who now competes for Oregon State. Both athletes shared a momentous victory at the Paris Olympics, where they won gold as part of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team. Reflecting on her journey, Chiles recently announced plans to release her memoir, I’m That Girl, in spring 2025. The book will delve into her Olympic experiences, including the challenges she faced when the International Olympic Committee controversially stripped her of a bronze medal won during the floor final.
Though this setback was one of the most difficult moments of her career, Chiles remains resilient. Her memoir, which includes a foreword by Simone Biles, stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
From a journalist's perspective, Chiles' performance serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of artistic expression in sports. Her ability to blend technical excellence with creative flair not only elevates her own performances but also enriches the sport of gymnastics as a whole. It’s clear that Chiles is not just competing; she’s inspiring the next generation of athletes to embrace their unique talents and never give up on their dreams.