Jordan Chiles said that again!

In an interview with NBC in May, the 2022 world gold medalist had said, “I can give (advice on) what to do, what not to do, how to take care of yourself … but at the end of the day, I’m not Simone Biles who has done 850 world championships.” A month later, she uttered the same. But that reflected Chiles’ confidence instead of reverence.

As a silver medalist in the Tokyo Olympics and a seasoned member of the U.S. Women’s National Gymnastics Team, Chiles is preparing for another chance at success. Before reaching the grand stage in Paris, she is set to participate in the Trials starting on June 27th that will bring her against her BFF Simone Biles. In a break-neck competition, handling pre-event stress is a challenge, but Chiles seems unfazed!

In an exclusive interview with People Publication, Jordan Chiles revealed how she approached the challenge with a new perspective and determination. As a self-professed “all-rounder,” she takes immense pride in her versatility, considering it a valuable asset for any Olympic team. And so, affirming her positive spirit, she stated, “I don’t think I have one event stronger than the other. I kind of feel like I’m equal everywhere, all around. I don’t compare myself. I’m not Jade Carey. I’m not Simone Biles. I’m not a Shilese Jones.“

“I’m Jordan, I’m this cool and amazing spunky girl,” Jordan further asserted. That mindset has taken a lot of pressure off, instilling a self-belief, according to her. Therefore, despite knowing that competition is going to be fierce at the trial, she has learned to deal with that. “Now, is it a little easier because I’ve done the experience before? Yeah, I can say because I kind of know the process of what an Olympic year looks like. But I can say it’s still stressful,” Jordan noted. But amid all these, Simone Biles will always have a special place in Chiles’ heart.

“Biles and Chiles… we love each other so much… That’s my bestie. We’re Biles and Chiles for a reason,” Chiles expressed affectionately in an interview with Fox News Digital last month. She had nothing but praise and excitement for Simone, for whom she had stood up in the Tokyo Olympics after the twisties scare.

“I’m that little sister. … I will give her all her flowers, her crown, whatever it needs to be. Yes, there’s times where we both have bad days. … I know this comeback for her is about to be the biggest comeback that’s ever been known, and I’m really excited to see where this year takes her. Paris … this is her time. Paris is definitely going to be something that everybody is just going to be in awe because this girl has dedicated a lot to this,” Chiles had declared.

Simone did not earn such a dedicated spot in Chiles’ life for no reason. She played a pivotal role in re-igniting Chiles’ passion for gymnastics when she felt like quitting.

How Simone Biles rescued Jordan Chiles’ gymnastics career!

In 2017, Jordan’s gymnastics trajectory seemed boundless. Her silver medal win in the all-around at the national championships hinted at her rising star status. But in 2018, the disappointment of not making the U.S. team for international competitions made her question her passion. Feeling disheartened and unsupported, Jordan distanced herself from the sport that once defined her. “I don’t think this sport really wants me.”

What changed her life was moving to Texas and Simone Biles, who offered Jordan a lifeline amidst her turmoil. Biles extended an invitation for Jordan to join her in Texas, training under the guidance of Cecile and Laurent Landi. With their supportive environment and emphasis on balance, Jordan rediscovered her love for gymnastics. Buoyed by newfound joy and surrounded by support, Jordan embarked on a transformative journey.

That association with Biles made Jordan reflect something: “You’re the only one who can make yourself do what you want to do. It’s your dream, your passion – it’s what you want to do. It goes back to your why. Why are you in the sport? Why do you wake up every day to do the things you are doing?”

Probably, that is what made Chiles understand the importance of inspiring young gymnasts. Candidly speaking in an interview with Gymnastics International in 2021, she acknowledged, “You’re powerful, strong, dedicated, and you can have hard times, but there are going to be people that are supporting you,” hinting at the support she received when she needed the most. Apart from her BFF, that came from her fans as well.

Her performance at the 2018 U.S. Gymnastics Championships was one of the many where people remember her to date. Paying tribute to D.C Comics, she donned a stunning Wonder Woman leotard and performed a floor routine on Wonder Woman music! “There was one girl who actually changed her name to Jordan Chiles. I started crying because I didn’t realize how much of an impact I had on people.” Keeping the flame saved by her BFF alive within her, she hopes to inspire young gymnasts.

As she puts it, “I discovered that gymnastics doesn’t always have to be about strictness. I actually realized this when I saw Simone compete. She looks like she’s having fun out there, laughing and giggling.” This is how she reclaimed her place in the sport with a resilience fueled by camaraderie and self-belief.