Team USA star Jordan Chiles made a triumphant return to collegiate gymnastics on Saturday at UCLA’s annual “Meet the Bruins” preseason event, marking her first competitive appearance since the Paris Olympics.
The 23-year-old gymnast, who helped Team USA secure gold in Paris, now aims to bring her international experience and determination back to the college stage.
From Paris to Pauley Pavilion
Chiles, who opted out of UCLA’s 2024 season to focus on Olympic training, rejoins the Bruins with two years of eligibility remaining.
Her return comes after a bittersweet Olympic experience, where she earned an individual bronze medal in the floor exercise, only to lose it after a successful appeal by Romania.
Despite the setback, Chiles has remained resilient. Speaking at the event in Los Angeles, she expressed her excitement about reuniting with her team.
“I honestly missed Pauley (Pavilion) so much,” Chiles said. “Being a Bruin has meant everything to me. Your girl is back, and I’m ready to bring everything I’ve learned to this team.”
A Leader on and off the Mat
Chiles emphasized that her Olympic experience has deepened her understanding of teamwork and mental fortitude, qualities she’s eager to share with her UCLA teammates.
“Having that atmosphere we had in Paris and bringing it here to Pauley is going to be really fun,” Chiles said. “It’s all about enjoying the moment, making memories, and being an inspiration to my teammates. Fours up all the way—UCLA is my ride or die!”
Future Olympic Aspirations?
Chiles has yet to announce if she’ll compete in the 2028 Olympics, which will be held in Los Angeles. At 27, she would be the same age as Simone Biles was during her record-breaking performance this summer.
While her future in Olympic competition remains undecided, fans are eager to see her journey unfold as she balances collegiate gymnastics with potential aspirations for the next Olympiad.
A Star-Studded Legacy
Chiles joins a tradition of Olympic-level gymnasts returning to collegiate sports. Fellow Paris teammates Suni Lee (Auburn) and Jade Carey (Oregon State) continue to thrive in the NCAA, while Hezly Rivera is committed to LSU.
Notably, Simone Biles is the only current member of Team USA who has not competed at the college level.
With Chiles headlining the roster, UCLA gymnastics looks poised for a standout season.
Gymnastics fans can expect to hear plenty of “Fours up!” as Chiles and the Bruins aim to shine both on the mat and in the hearts of their supporters.
