Jordan Chiles has been making headlines in the world of gymnastics lately, and for all the right reasons. The 20-year-old athlete has been making a name for herself with her impressive performances and inspiring journey. But what many people may not know is that Chiles’ success has not come without its own set of struggles and challenges.
One of the biggest influences in Chiles’ life has been her close friend and teammate, Simone Biles. The two have been training together for years and have formed a strong bond both on and off the mat. So when Biles made the decision to withdraw from the all-around final at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, it had a profound impact on Chiles.
Chiles has often spoken about how she watched Biles confront the weight of public expectation at the Olympics, an experience that left a lasting impression on her. She saw her friend, who is widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, step aside from the competition and speak candidly about the value of therapy. This was a moment that Chiles will never forget.
Biles’ decision to prioritize her mental health and well-being over her athletic career was a powerful statement that resonated with Chiles. It showed her that even the strongest and most successful athletes can struggle with mental health issues and that it is okay to seek help. This was a lesson that Chiles took to heart and has since become an advocate for mental health awareness.
But it wasn’t just Biles’ actions that left a deep impression on Chiles, it was also her words. In an interview with NBC, Biles said, “We also have to focus on ourselves, because at the end of the day, we’re human too. We have to protect our mind and our body, rather than just go out there and do what the world wants us to do.”
These words struck a chord with Chiles, who had also been struggling with similar issues before she even started gymnastics. In an interview with People, Chiles revealed that she had been diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety at a young age. She also shared that she had been bullied in school and had low self-esteem, which made her hesitant to try new things.
But when Chiles discovered gymnastics at the age of six, she found a sense of purpose and belonging. She fell in love with the sport and poured her heart and soul into it. However, as she progressed in her career and the pressure to perform increased, Chiles found herself struggling with the same issues that Biles had faced.
It wasn’t until she saw Biles speak openly about her struggles that Chiles realized she needed to prioritize her mental health as well. She started seeing a therapist and working on her mental well-being, which has had a positive impact on her performance as well. Chiles has since become more confident and resilient, and it has shown in her performances.
At the US Gymnastics Championships in June 2021, Chiles had a breakthrough moment when she won the all-around title, beating out Biles for the first time in her career. It was a proud moment for both Chiles and Biles, who have been supporting each other every step of the way.
Chiles’ journey to the Olympics has not been an easy one, but she has overcome every obstacle with determination and resilience. And now, she has finally overcome the same issue that Biles heavily struggled with before gymnastics – the pressure to meet the expectations of others.
Chiles’ story is a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. She has become a role model for young athletes, showing them that it is okay to take a step back and prioritize their well-being. And with Biles by her side, Chiles is ready to take on the world and continue making a name for herself in the world of gymnastics.
In conclusion, Jordan Chiles’ journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of mental health. Her friendship with Simone Biles has not only helped her become a better athlete but also a better person. And as she continues to inspire others with her story, Chiles is proving that she is more than just a gymnast – she is a true champion in every sense of the word.
