Beyond the medals and the Olympic spotlight, there’s another side to the UCLA Bruins superstar, Jordan Chiles. One that’s inked in personal meaning and powerful tributes. Whether it’s a nod to her gymnastics journey, a demonstration of durability, or a tribute to the greats who have been formative in her life, Chiles’ tattoos communicate a narrative that is as stunning as her play on the floor or bars.

The way Chiles’ fans keep wondering about her performances on the gymnastics mat and her tattoos always reflects a trait of her personality, being a tribute to MJ; it reflects her journey. Let’s take a closer look at the tattoos that make Jordan Chiles’ story even more compelling.

How many tattoos does Jordan Chiles have?

Chiles once stated, “I have them on my left arm, I have one on my spine, two on my back, some on my hands. I have tattoos everywhere.” The two-time Olympian, who has over 30 tattoos, always expresses her love, inspiration, and life highs through the images on her skin, each of which has particular significance to her. Her tattoos are more than mere designs—they’re chapters of her journey, blending her passions, beliefs, and milestones. And it all started with a rose blooming on her left forearm. This signifies strength, beauty, and growth.

Her left arm also has the words “Where you are, I have been. Where I am, you will be.” That’s a tribute to her grandfather, who passed away in 2023. There’s a snake designed on her left upper arm. She has also etched a “Golden” script and flower bouquet on her left biceps. There’s a fierce tiger, representing strength, and the angel number “444” tattooed on her left biceps. 

Apart from these, the Olympic medalist has a tattoo behind the right ear—a small, black heart. And the left ear? It’s a rose flower inked, which isn’t very clearly visible due to its location. Her shoulder is dotted with stars, while a delicate bow sits on her left biceps, adding a touch of elegance. A sleek one-line design outlining faces wraps around her upper arm, contrasting with the bold red flame tattoo she sports. On her wrist, a cross serves as a reminder of faith, while the phrase “One Day at a Time” graces her forearm. Just above, “Patience” is inked onto her hand—perhaps a nod to her journey in gymnastics.

On her right forearm, near the elbow, Jordan Chiles has a tattoo that reminds her of the Olympics. The right upper arm also has a shoutout to the legendary Bulls’ former shooting guard and small forward, Michael Jordan. Additionally, she has a pair of koi on her spine that were left hidden for a long time.

Words carry deep meaning for Chiles. “Everything Happens for a Reason” is inked on her body as a personal mantra, while “Energy” decorates her triceps. “Little Sunshine,” “Honey,” and “Divine” are scattered across her skin, reflecting different aspects of her personality. Her hands also feature subtle but striking pieces, including “PR” and “AY” on separate fingers, forming the word “PRAY,” along with a simple “XO” tattoo. From butterflies to flames, each design on Chiles’ body represents her resilience, passion, and individuality—just like her gymnastics.

Jordan Chiles also has a ribcage piece, though its details remain a mystery, as well as a script tattoo along her mid-back that’s tough to decipher. There’s a quote: “You have struggled… and have overcome,” on her left scapula. Her right upper back features the Bible verse, “My grace is sufficient for you.” Some designs may stay under wraps, but one thing’s clear—every tattoo tells a story, whether we can read it or not! Just like her back tattoo!

What does Jordan Chiles’ back tattoo mean?

The pair of koi fish extends along her spine, symbolic of a yin-yang style motif. This usually symbolizes balance, harmony, and life’s journey. It’s the inked proof of her personal transformation and resilient nature. It reflects peace and equilibrium in her life.

Complementing this, she also has two profound quotes on her back: “You have struggled… you have overcome,” and a Bible verse from Corinthians, “My grace is sufficient for you,” both serving as reminders of her resilience and faith. But gymnast stars proudly display tattoos on more than just their backs. There are a few other inks that represent her career’s achievements. 

Did she get an Olympic tattoo?

She does have the Olympic rings on her right biceps, a memento of her Olympic run. There’s also the flower bouquet paired with the word “golden”, highlighting her win at the Olympic Games. And not so surprisingly, it seems to be a twin tattoo with her friend Simone Biles. And how does that connect? Well, because Biles also has the same word carved on her left wrist in cursive writing to commemorate her first Olympic win.

But it’s not just the Olympics that Jordan Chiles highlights through her body inks. She has an SI-Swimsuit “25” Clothesline bikini tattoo that commemorates her 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway debut.

Each tattoo on Jordan Chiles tells a story, weaving together her personal experiences, inspirations, and the values she holds dear. While Jordan Chiles Olympic bronze medal controversy gave her heartbreak, she is resilient enough to move forward in style. And that brings us to the Michael Jordan shout out.

What is Chiles’ Michael Jordan tribute tattoo?

“Love the name!”, said Michael Jordan to elite gymnast Jordan Chiles. Why did he say that? Jordan Chiles wasn’t just born to shine in gymnastics—she was named after the GOAT himself! Her mom, a die-hard MJ fan, knew no name could be better. And Jordan? She’s been living up to it ever since. But her connection to the basketball legend goes beyond just a name.

Perhaps one of her most personal tattoos is the number “23” on the back of her arm, a direct homage to her namesake, Michael Jordan, who donned jersey 23 for the greater part of his illustrious career. This ink not only honors the basketball legend but also signifies the legacy she aspires to create in her own right.

And with that, begs the question..

Will she add more tattoos in the future?

Like many others, Jordan Chiles isn’t really keen on drawing the line when it comes to tattoos. Talking to Sports Illustrated back in May 2025, she said, “I have over 20 and they’re all on my left side, with the exception of the Olympic rings on my right side. My right side is my dominant side and I feel like that is my conquering side. My left side is quirkier. I’ve had surgery on my left side and most of my injuries happen on that side—I’m honoring that side by adding beauty to it with my tattoos.” 

And she definitely plans on adding to her tattoo collection in the future. Do you think she’ll get something to highlight the upcoming 2028 LA Olympics? Or is there a design that you’d want to suggest that she gets? Do let us know with a comment.