Gymnastics legend Nadia Comaneci has implored the public to cease harassing gymnasts involved in a controversial scoring reversal at the Paris Olympics. The decision could strip Jordan Chiles of her bronze medal, prompting outpouring of support and condemnation.
Following her initial criticism of judges for altering Jordan Chiles' score, Nadia Comaneci has now defended the American gymnast against online attacks. The Romanian legend has denounced the harassment directed towards both Chiles and Ana Barbosu, whose initial third-place finish was reinstated.
Nadia Comaneci Pleads for End to Attacks on Gymnasts Amid Controversial Scoring Change
Comaneci's plea for empathy stems from her earlier post expressing pride in Barbosu and Chiles, using a filter that labeled Barbosu as the bronze medalist. However, she has since clarified that her support for Barbosu was not intended to devalue Chiles' achievement.
The controversy erupted when judges increased Chiles' score during the women's floor exercise final, initially awarding her a bronze medal that was intended for Barbosu. The Court of Arbitration for Sport later ruled that the inquiry granted to increase Chiles' score was improper, leading to the reinstatement of her original score and the reversal of the medal allocation.
Nadia Comaneci Pleads for End to Attacks on Gymnasts Amid Controversial Scoring Change
In the face of online vitriol, Chiles has announced her withdrawal from social media to protect her mental well-being. Despite a surge of support from fans, she has also been targeted by insults and hate speech.
Comaneci has vehemently condemned the attacks, using social media to urge people to stop harassing the young gymnasts. She has emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and the need to respect athletes regardless of their performance or nationality.
Nadia Comaneci Pleads for End to Attacks on Gymnasts Amid Controversial Scoring Change
The scoring reversal has left both Chiles and Barbosu emotionally affected. Chiles has been forced to relinquish her medal and face public scrutiny, while Barbosu has been denied the recognition she initially received.
USA Gymnastics and the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee have expressed devastation at the ruling, emphasizing Chiles' integrity and resilience. They have condemned the online attacks directed towards her and pledged their unwavering support.
Chiles is only the third gymnast in history to have an Olympic medal stripped. The other two instances occurred at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, involving China's Dong Fangxiao and Romania's Andreea Răducan.
Comaneci's plea for respect serves as a reminder that athletes are human beings who deserve support and encouragement, regardless of their performance or the outcome of competitions. It is crucial to foster a culture of sportsmanship and empathy in all levels of athletics.
