Jordan Chiles Signs off UCLA Chapter With Emotional Message to Team

April 16, 2026, Frot Worth, Texas, USA: FORT WORTH, TX : UCLAÃââ s JORDAN CHILES performs her floor routine during Session II of the NCAA, College League, USA WomenÃââ s Gymnastics National Championships at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth on Thursday. Frot Worth USA - ZUMAm257 20260416_zsp_m257_121 Copyright: xBrianxMcLeanx
April 16, 2026, Frot Worth, Texas, USA: FORT WORTH, TX : UCLAÃââ s JORDAN CHILES performs her floor routine during Session II of the NCAA, College League, USA WomenÃââ s Gymnastics National Championships at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth on Thursday. Frot Worth USA - ZUMAm257 20260416_zsp_m257_121 Copyright: xBrianxMcLeanx
The 2026 NCAA Women's Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth, Texas, had just ended. While fans were occupied with the results and prominent stories like Oklahoma's win, it was Jordan Chiles who took the limelight a couple of days later.
The 25-year-old ended one of the most successful four-year stints in program history at the event. She bid an emotional goodbye to the Bruins via an Instagram post on Tuesday, April 21. She shared her gratitude to the University of California, Los Angeles, and her team, writing:
"Where do I even begin, never thought I would be writing a farewell😭, but here I am crying while writing. You’ve taught me so much coming in as a freshman and giving me the best 4 years of my life. I’ve learned so much about myself and becoming who I am today. Thank you to my teammates for giving me long lasting friendships and memories."
"To my coaches words couldn’t describe how honored I am to be one of your athletes, that not only competed every year but you guys allowed me to be my self. UCLA you are a chapter that I will never forget! Thank you everyone who supported me throughout these 4 years, Love y’all so much!! With that being said- THAT GIRL! Is out❤️💕😭," Chiles concluded.
Even earlier, Jordan Chiles had thanked her teammates during difficult phases of her career. After the Tokyo Olympics, she spoke about burnout and said UCLA helped her enjoy gymnastics again, while calling her teammates her "support system."
At the 2026 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth, Jordan Chiles completed her last appearance for UCLA as the team finished fifth overall with a score of 197.2750.
However, on an individual note, she won the 2026 NCAA floor exercise title with a 9.9750. The score secured her fourth NCAA individual championship and her second title on floor, ending her final season on a strong note.
Across her time at UCLA, she delivered consistent performances and recorded 19 perfect 10s, including one on vault in the 2026 season. She was also named the 2026 Big Ten Gymnast of the Year and received the AAI Award in her senior year.
Jordan Chiles also took part in projects outside gymnastics, including an appearance on Dancing With the Stars and the release of her memoir, I’m That Girl: Living the Power of My Dreams. As her journey moved beyond the mat, her farewell post also got attention from her team and fans.
Reactions to Jordan Chiles Farewell Post
Jordan Chiles’ farewell post drew heartwarming messages from her coaches, teammates, and fans. UCLA head coach Janelle McDonald penned a long message in the comments, an excerpt of which read:
"Kinda needed a warning before seeing this post 🥹💙💛 What an amazing journey it has been, Jojo! So many incredible memories, moments, laughs, growth and fun! Love you Jo and am so proud of the impact you make on those around you, the legacy you have left at UCLA, and on our beautiful sport worldwide! Can’t wait to see what’s in store for you in the next chapter! I’ll always be in your corner supporting you."
Teammate Tiana Sumanasekera wrote, "Aww, Jo, so incredibly proud of you and all you have accomplished, I love you so much !!!” Ciena Alipio admitted the post made her emotional
Chiles' fans also reacted to her farewell, calling her a "game changer" and appreciating her impact at UCLA. Some also suggested that her UCLA jersey should be retired, showing the impact she's had on the UCLA program.
Read more at the Gymnastics Digest!
Written by
Divyanshi Raj
Edited by

Yask Kotak