Originally, Barbosu received a score that leveled her up past the competition and landed her the bronze medal.
However, a score change resulted in Chiles quickly replacing her on the medal podium.
The response from Chiles herself and the wider American gymnastics community has been one of heartbreak and protest.
But how did this all happen?
Team USA was out in full force, with cartwheeling extraordinaires Simeone Biles and Jordan Chiles set to compete.
But what about Chiles?
The Washington native was the last athlete to step onto the iconic spring floor.
Chiles placed fifth, behind Barbosu and Maneca-Voinea.
However, Jordan Chiles' coach, Cecile Canqueteau-Landi, felt that something wasn’t right.
She submitted an official inquiry to the judges.
AsNBC Olympicsexplained, this is a way of verbally challenging the score of a routine.
Her score was then changed from 13.666 to an impressive 13.766.
Her teammate and close friend, Simone Biles, wasn’t too far behind.
It’s my first time ever in an event final.
So, this medal means everything.
First event final, first event medal, like, oh my gosh!
I have no words, but I’m very proud of myself."
However, national allegiances melted away when audiences realized that this podium moment was bigger than any one country.
Biles and Chiles bowe to Andrade, who beamed while lifting her arms in celebration.
and I was like ‘absolutely.'"
However, video replays revealed that Maneca-Voinea’s heel had actually landed within bounds.
Romanian sports legend and nine-time Olympic champion in gymnastics, Nadia Comaneci, also took toXto defend Barbosu.
This wasn’t due to Chiles’ rotating jump split being deemed subpar.
Instead, it all came down to an issue of timing.
Other governmental bodies fell into lockstep with CAS.
In an Instagram Story, Chiles posted a series of broken heart emojis against a simple black background.
Jordan won this bronze medal and I didn’t steal anything from anyone.
I simply did my job and fought for my athlete.
Do I feel bad for the Romanian athlete?
Of course I do!
It was so sad and heartbreaking to see but it is the sport!
She EARNED that bronze medal.
I couldn’t be more proud and excited!"
We love you!"
(viaE!).
Sadly, though, it wasn’t long before this Hail Mary attempt was shot down.
I will take a break from the social media" (viaE!).
In an Instagram post, Barbosu wrote, “Sabrina, Jordan, my thoughts are with you.
I know what you are feeling, because I’ve been through the same.
But I know you’ll come back stronger.
That is my true dream!”
(viaDaily Mail).
Is this a likely outcome?
It’s hard to tell.
With each passing day, new wrinkles in this scandal emerge.
