“Watching her [Jordan Chiles] have so much fun in elite gymnastics — and the way that she rubs off on her teammates — it’s amazing to watch and I’m so proud of her!” Those were Aly Raisman’s words, spoken from the best seat in the house during a college gymnastics broadcast last January. A two-time Olympian turned commentator, Aly has seen greatness up close — and in Jordan Chiles, she recognizes something special. Now, whether Jordan has heard Aly’s praise or not is unclear. But Jordan, too, has something powerful to say about the woman she calls an inspiration.

In a recent conversation with The Athletic, Jordan opened up about the influence Aly has had on her journey. “She [Aly] has taught me so many things about what it’s like to be not a common gymnast,” Jordan shared. “She wasn’t like everybody else. She had her own ways. And she embraced those and made sure that those were the things she was authentic to because that’s who she is.” Sound familiar?

Jordan has become the very embodiment of authenticity herself. A gymnast who’s thrived in the spotlight, stumbled through controversy, and still managed to land on her feet — literally and figuratively. In the eight months following a bittersweet Paris Olympics, Jordan has weathered the storm: waves of criticism, sparks of controversy, bursts of celebration, and moments of reflection. But no matter what was happening off the mat, on the mat she’s been that girl — the one who delivers when it counts, supports her team with a megawatt smile, and stamps her name in the record books with not one, not two, but three perfect 10s.

Like Aly, Jordan Chiles isn’t afraid to stand out. She owns her narrative, embraces her individuality, and pushes forward when it’s easier to step back. Both gymnasts are more than medalists — they’re movement-makers. They’re the ones who redefine what it means to be a competitor. Furthermore, they remind us that being bold, being real, and being different isn’t a weakness — it’s the power play. So maybe Jordan has heard Aly’s words. Maybe not. But what’s undeniable is this: Aly sees herself in Jordan, and Jordan has found strength in Aly. And together, even from different sides of the arena, they’re showing the next generation what resilience, authenticity, and sisterhood in gymnastics really look like.

And if that connection between Jordan Chiles and Aly Raisman wasn’t already powerful enough, let us remind you of something that will hit you right in the feels. Last year, in an interview with Olympics.com, Jordan shared a heart-melting moment that perfectly captures their bond. When asked what goes through her mind before stepping onto the mat, she didn’t hesitate. She looked at Aly Raisman and said, “You know how you always told me I was your good luck charm? I always think of you when I’m out on the competition floor. Because truly, honestly, Aly, you inspired not only just me, but a lot of girls out here. Pause for that. Let it sink in. The girl once called Aly’s good luck charm is now out here, in front of Aly’s eyes, carving her own legacy, making NCAA history one flawless performance at a time. 

Jordan Chiles is making history in front of Aly Raisman’s eyes 

History was made on Thursday, April 17 — and her name is Jordan Chiles. With her trademark flair and unshakable focus, Jordan became the first UCLA Bruins gymnast to win multiple NCAA uneven bars championships, adding the 2025 crown to her 2023 title. Two championships. One queen of the bars. And thanks to her clutch performances throughout the meet, the Bruins punched their ticket to the next round. But here’s the real question: what’s next for Jordan on Saturday?

Well, Chiles just heard Aly Raisman call her amazing. Aly, her idol, her good luck charm. The same Aly she once looked up to from the stands… is now looking at her and saying, “I’m so proud.” You think that doesn’t light a fire?

Jordan is already a powerhouse. Already a history-maker. But now? With Aly’s words echoing in her heart, the stakes aren’t just about scores — they’re about legacy. Inspiration has come full circle, and Jordan’s not just carrying the moment — she’s owning it. So, come Saturday, don’t be surprised if Jordan steps out on the floor with even more purpose, more passion, and that signature spark in her eyes. She’s got history behind her, her team beside her, and Aly Raisman cheering her on — from the commentary booth, and from the heart.