?That Are the Same Skin Tone as Me?: Named After Michael Jordan, US Gymnastics Star Opens Up on Representing 9% Black Athletes in America

Jordan Chiles has been dominating the sport of gymnastics since she was a wee woman only 6 years old. With time, her dream grew big enough to completely overtake her life in the best possible manner. In following her dreams, Chiles became one of the most celebrated gymnasts in the world. During the 2022 U.S. Gymnastics Championship in Florida, Jordan Chiles made history with two other young American gymnasts. Together, they constituted an all-black podium.

As for Chiles, her motivations have been clear since she was named after another great from her community. Bearing a part of Michael Jordan‘s name certainly comes with its own set of inspirations. Hats off to the 22-year-old gymnast who has created a name of her own in the world of sports. Her determination to shed light on the struggles of her fellow people has highlighted her as a smart intelligent woman fighting for what’s right.

Jordan Chiles is inspiring young minds

During an interview for Team USA’s official Instagram page, Jordan Chiles was asked a question about black representation in her sport. The interviewer asked, “Only 9% of Division 1 athletes identify as black. Do you foresee any changes based on the performance at the U.S. Championships?” Jordan Chiles proudly replied, “That was the first time it has been a black podium right?” With Konnor McClain, Shilese Jones, and Jordan Chiles claiming the top three spots at the championships, it was a proud moment.

In the interview, Jordan Chiles added, “So, it just made me realize that the diversity in our sport is only getting bigger. Being part of that 9% definitely is something that I feel like is going to be more inspirational to the younger athletes that are the same skin tone as me or have the same hair as me.” It is clear that the Tokyo Olympics silver medalist does not want her gymnastics career to be only about medals and accolades and achievements. She is looking to inspire other young aspirants such as her to make it big.

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In the end, she said, “We are who we are. Nobody can change that. No negative comment, no bully-bot, no nothing… This is what we stand for and this is who Team U.S.A. is.” The 22-year-old gymnast has already proved that nothing will stand in her way as she moves ahead at a breakneck speed. But what inspired the elite American gymnast to become the compelling young woman she is today?

The magic in the NBA legend’s name

Just like Michael Jordan was born to conquer basketball, the same way Jordan Chiles was born to compete in gymnastics. Since she was a little girl, Chiles’ mother was a huge Jordan fan, and that is how the 22-year-old gymnast became a namesake of the NBA icon. In fact, her mom was so inspired by MJ, that Chiles once revealed, “She just decided, ‘You know what? I’m going to make my child after him and see where life takes her.'” And life took Jordan Chiles places.

But what effect did bearing a name that comes with so much pressure to perform work out for the Olympic medalist herself? According to Jordan Chiles, “Keeping that grind, keeping that motivation, keeping that dedication, is something that’s always stuck with me, because I have big goals and I want to accomplish them.” Turns out, MJ has only ever inspired Chiles, as she becomes a pioneer for her people’s cause.

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