Gymnast Jordan Chiles has a unique and inspiring connection to one of the greatest athletes of all time, Michael Jordan. Born in Tualatin, Oregon, on April 15, 2001, to parents Timothy and Gina Chiles, Jordan’s mother was a massive fan of the NBA legend since her own childhood. Drawing inspiration from Michael Jordan’s incredible achievements and the motivation he instilled in her, Jordan’s mother decided to name her daughter after the basketball icon.
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Now, at 22 years old, Jordan Chiles is making waves in the world of gymnastics. The UCLA gymnast recently announced that she will embark on a year of training for the 2024 Paris Olympics after her college season ended. But beyond her impressive gymnastics career, Jordan Chiles still holds a deep admiration for the six-time NBA champion she was named after.
“I’m crossing my fingers that I’ll actually be able to meet him and just get his advice for being somebody that looks up to him, what he gives out,” says Jordan. The thought of meeting Michael Jordan, her namesake and a source of inspiration, is undoubtedly an exciting prospect for the talented gymnast.
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Having the name of such an iconic athlete has provided Jordan Chiles with an extra dose of motivation and determination. She embraces the “grind mentality” and the philosophy of constantly challenging herself to grow and excel in her sport. Meeting challenges head-on and finding love in what she does has been pivotal in her success as a gymnast.
At the 2023 NCAA Championship, Jordan Chiles showcased her brilliance by winning the bar and floor titles, earning a perfect 10 on the bars. Though UCLA was ultimately eliminated from the finals, Chiles expressed her immense pride in her team and thanked them for their unwavering support.
Before diving into intense Olympic training, Jordan Chiles is looking forward to a well-deserved vacation in Hawaii. The downtime will offer her a chance to relax and rejuvenate before immersing herself in the elite world of gymnastics once again.
Jordan Chiles’ connection to Michael Jordan serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that athletes can have on the lives of others. Her determination, hard work, and admiration for her namesake continue to inspire countless fans and aspiring gymnasts worldwide. As she prepares for her journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics, Jordan Chiles’ passion for her sport and her incredible connection to Michael Jordan are sure to fuel her quest for greatness.
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