Gymnastics legend Nadia Comaneci expressed anger after Romanian Ana Barbosu lost her bronze medal to American Jordan Chiles due to a score review requested by U.S. coaches.
Comaneci criticized the decision on X, emphasizing the impact on athletes' mental health and emotions.
Barbosu initially believed she had secured a medal during Monday's floor final, celebrating with her country’s flag.
U.S. coaches requested a review of Chiles’ score, resulting in a 0.1 increase and pushing Chiles' score to 13.766, just above Barbosu’s 13.700.
The revised results left Barbosu frozen and devastated as she looked at the giant screen and then exited the venue in tears.
Team USA coach Cecile Landi admitted they had nothing to lose with the inquiry and was surprised by the successful score adjustment.
The incident highlighted the emotional and psychological toll on athletes due to competitive decisions and scoring reviews.