Jordan Chiles is back with a bang. The Olympic medalist made her highly anticipated return to NCAA gymnastics competition this month, and she’s already breaking the internet with her show-stopping floor routine.
Chiles Channels Prince in Viral Performance
For her comeback routine, Chiles chose to pay homage to the legendary musician Prince. Set to a medley of The Purple One’s greatest hits, the routine is packed with intricate choreography inspired by his iconic performances. But Chiles elevates it to the next level with her signature style, energy, and elite tumbling skills.
The routine, which Chiles and coach BJ Das put together in just three days, earned an astronomical 9.975 at the Bruins’ meet on Saturday. But the sky-high score is just the beginning of the routine’s impact.
From Arena to Internet Sensation
Clips of the routine immediately took off online, racking up millions of views across social media. And it’s no wonder why. Chiles’ performance is jam-packed with wow moments from start to finish, including:
- High-flying tumbling passes that seem to defy gravity
- Funky fresh choreography straight out of a Prince music video
- Unmatched performance quality that oozes charisma and joy
“That was so fun. The choreography, I’m exhausted watching this routine. Just start to finish, the performance quality [is] next level.”
— Aly Raisman, 6-time Olympic medalist
Unfinished Business Brings Chiles Back
After a history-making elite career and a year off from NCAA competition, what drew Chiles back to the college stage? In a word: unfinished business.
Despite her individual success, Chiles has her eyes on the ultimate prize—a national championship for UCLA. Beyond that, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy in the same vein as the Bruin greats that came before her.
“I want to be able to leave a legacy at UCLA, just like a bunch of my other teammates have and just to continue to represent in the way that I can.”
— Jordan Chiles
The Makings of a Gymnastics Masterpiecee
Chiles and Das took inspiration from Prince’s performances to craft choreography to match the music down to specific beats and memorable moments. But for Chiles, artistry is just one piece of the puzzle.
Her goal was to bring the fun and excitement back to the forefront of the sport, all while executing the most difficult tumbling currently being competed in NCAA gymnastics. Based on the reactions, it’s safe to say she nailed it.
Leading the Bruins to New Heights
As UCLA enters the heart of the season, Chiles’ presence is already making a major impact. Her routines add a boost to the Bruins’ title chances, but her leadership may be even more valuable.
“She’s only been back with us for a few weeks, but she has this ability to just elevate the room around her. She brings this energy and this passion to the table each and every day that inspires the people around her.”
— Janelle McDonald, UCLA head coach
UCLA currently sits at No. 11 in the national rankings, but Chiles and her teammates have their sights set on the top spot. With routines like this one leading the way, counting them out seems unwise.
Just the Beginning
In true Jordan Chiles fashion, she’s not resting on the success of this one routine. She’s already back in the gym, dreaming up the next viral sensation. One thing is clear: the world will be watching, and she’ll be ready to deliver.
