Jordan Chiles and Suni Lee Find Balance Stepping Away from U.S. Classic

“I am going to try for worlds this year. That is something that I put my eye on, and I will. I keep telling everybody, I’m not done,” Jordan Chiles stated three years ago, setting a goal that would see her evolving into one of the biggest stars in gymnastics. At that time, she was diligently working to help the UCLA Bruins clinch the National Gymnastics Championships. While the outcome wasn’t as she hoped, her resilience shone brightly during the 2022 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. Jordan played a pivotal role in securing a gold medal for Team USA in the team event and also earned silver medals on both vault and floor. Yet, satisfaction eluded her — she wasn’t finished striving for more. That drive propelled her forward to the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she again made a massive impact by helping Team USA win the women’s team final. Now, as we find ourselves in July 2025, Jordan has shared new reflections on her ongoing gymnastics journey.

A lot has transformed since 2022. Jordan Chiles has transitioned from a promising young athlete to a seasoned senior within both Team USA and the UCLA Bruins. She has embraced the role of being a mentor, a big sister figure that younger gymnasts turn to for inspiration and guidance. With another World Artistic Gymnastics Championships on the horizon, the pressure weighs heavier than ever. What insights might she share in such a moment?

On July 16, Jordan made a striking appearance on the ESPY Awards red carpet, accompanied by fellow star Suni Lee. During this high-profile engagement, E! News caught up with her, prompting reflections on life beyond gymnastics. The 24-year-old opened up about her experiences, emphasizing the importance of living life away from competitive pressures. Notably, both she and Suni will not be competing at the US Classic this year, raising questions about their future plans. While Jordan kept her cards close to her chest, she shared, “It’s been really fun—just finding ways outside of our sport to continue to live our life.” Meanwhile, Suni has been absent from competition since the Paris Olympics, contrasting Jordan’s whirlwind schedule filled with various commitments.

Fresh off her success at the Paris Olympics, Jordan joined Simone Biles on the prestigious GOAT Tour. Following that, she pivoted back to UCLA to contribute to the Bruins’ campaign, competing through the NCAA regular season and postseason events until April. Given her packed agenda, it’s understandable she welcomes a well-deserved break. This phase is an ideal opportunity for Jordan to strike a balance between the rigorous demands of training and competition and simply enjoying life — a balance she recognizes as essential.

Exploring this deeper, Jordan emphasized, “There’s more to us; we’re more than just athletes. I think our minds constantly grow and gravitate in different ways, so I’ve just been enjoying it.” This sentiment reflects her multifaceted identity beyond the sport — while she could easily be the poster girl for athletic excellence, she also acknowledges her humanity, which resonates profoundly with many.

Jordan Chiles Shows Life Beyond Gymnastics

What exactly does life look like for Jordan Chiles outside the world of tumbling and medals? She’s been candidly showcasing her journey. A particularly poignant moment came on May 22 when she shared a serene post on Instagram, surrounded by nature, devoid of the competitive atmosphere. In her caption, she stated, “I am more than my sport,” emphasizing that her identity encompasses more than just athletic accolades. She elaborated further, stating, “I am resilient, creative, compassionate, and human — deserving of love and care whether I’m flipping in front of thousands or sitting quietly with my thoughts.” This message portrays a rich tapestry of roles in her life, such as being a daughter, sister, auntie, student, business owner, and friend, all of which contribute significantly to her sense of self.

Despite her demanding schedule — from competing at elite levels, returning to UCLA for the NCAA season, to appearing in the 2025 SI Swimsuit Issue, engaging with AAPI leaders at the Gold House Gala, and gearing up for a presentation at the American Music Awards — Jordan remains anchored in values that matter most. Her focus on prioritizing mental health comes across strongly in her messages.

With her growing influence, Jordan Chiles has become the voice for anyone who has felt adrift amid the intensity of athletic life, challenging traditional notions of worth that revolve solely around achievement. Her resonating message? “I see you. You matter. Take a moment for yourself — it can be more powerful than you realize.” In a world often defined by performance metrics, Jordan’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that our humanity transcends mere accolades, striking a chord that many can relate to.