Jordan Chiles Dreams of Leaving a Legacy Bigger Than Gymnastics

Jordan Chiles competes on floor exercises during a college meet Photo by Greg Fiore/Icon Sportswire
Jordan Chiles competes on floor exercises during a college meet Photo by Greg Fiore/Icon Sportswire
Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles' legacy is already cemented, but she is no closer to fulfilling her ambitions.
With a trophy cabinet that would leave many envious, Chiles’ dreams of sporting excellence have become a reality. Yet, as she is set to graduate from UCLA with a degree in African American studies, Chiles has insisted on wanting more and emulating her idols outside of the sport.
Chiles has candidly spoken about breaking boundaries. Whether in entertainment or business, she has applied herself in multiple disciplines and has achieved success.
"I would love to leave a legacy like Beyoncé or Whitney Houston,” she said, as reported by Scott Bregman for Olympics. “But I want to leave a legacy outside of my sport."

JORDAN CHILES at UCLA (Image via ZUMA/Amy Sanderson)
JORDAN CHILES at UCLA (Image via ZUMA/Amy Sanderson)
At the age of 25, Chiles has chosen to blend sporting pursuits with growing her brand. And everything is planned to perfection, with the gymnast acknowledging her achievements. She is even a New York Times best-selling author.
"It's pretty crazy that I've done so much in the time span of me only being 25 years old," Chiles said. "I'm very proud of myself, but I know I have a lot more to do."
The Oregon native has expressed the desire to act in Hollywood blockbusters and television classics. Speaking of TV, she capped off 2025 by finishing third in Dancing with the Stars. Taking to the floor with her professional dance partner, Ezra Sosa, Chiles is currently on tour with the show.
Chiles has also used her influence for philanthropy. With the Shero Athlete Collective, she aims to support budding athletes with mentorship on and off the mat.
Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed, as Time Magazine hailed her as one of the Women of the Year in 2025. In addition, coaches and leaders have lauded her contributions.
“She’s shown that excellence and individuality are not mutually exclusive,” said Annie Heffernon, vice president of women’s program at USA Gymnastics.
Heffernon has celebrated Chiles' individuality and authenticity, noting her influence across the gymnastics community.
Chiles will finish her collegiate career with four NCAA titles and has the world at her feet. She, however, isn’t opposed to competing for more Olympic glory.
Could Chiles Compete at the LA Olympics 2028?
Two Olympic medals, including a team gold, may not be enough for Jordan Chiles. With the competition set to be held at home in Los Angeles, she may be tempted.
LA 2028 is shrouded in intrigue regarding returning stars, with fellow gymnast Simone Biles also yet to announce her decision. Chiles, however, has been more candid in considering her participation. A third straight inclusion in Team USA isn’t out of the question.
"I think about it all the time," she said. "It's really more about physically for me than it is mentally."
Chiles’ ambition doesn’t come as a surprise, considering she is named after basketball legend Michael Jordan. A fact that only fuels her quest for success.
Read more at the Gymnastics Digest!
Written by
Sijo Paul
Edited by
Sijo Paul