Sports can, at times, be a grueling world of exhaustion; physically and mentally. What adds on to the situation further is the notions and perspectives people in the industry and outside force upon each other. However, in recent times, renowned figures have risen to speak of the circumstances, shedding light on well-being prioritization. Jordan Chiles, the Olympic gymnast, reveals to have found strength in these names to be one herself.

Emotional ab*se, body shaming, self-doubt, and concerns more have framed Jordan Chiles’ list of rocks on her path. After years of resilience and inner battles, the gymnast found her way to peace and to advocate mental health. In a recent revelation, the Olympic silver medalist listed the iconic figures that held an impact on her.

Jordan Chiles credits best friend and other icons

Jordan Chiles recently joined the Lautners for an interview on her journey and life in general. She spoke in detail about her ebbs and flows. From the beginning of her gymnastics career to the emotional scars she incurred throughout, the Olympian had a lot to express and to highlight. She appeared to be wiser beyond her years. Taylor Dome Lautner, sitting through the stories, to the end asked who had the most positive impact on Jordan’s mental health. For the gymnast, it was every sports figure that openly spoke about it. “From Simone to Serena Williams to Naomi Osaka to even Michael Jordan when people really didn’t know that he was truly talking about it,” Chiles remarks.

Furthermore, her list extended to include renowned entertainment names inclusive of Chloe Bailey and Megan Thee Stallion. “Her journey and what she’s gone through I was like wow,” Chiles says of the former. To the end of it, Taylor Lautner added, “You are one of those,” and rightfully so.

An impactful figure herself

Jordan Chiles has walked through numerous difficult paths in her life. Though the instances initially restricted the gymnast, she has grown to embrace and to point out the issues. One of these has been the outer view surrounding her body image. A concern she has outgrown to shed light and inspire. “I’m not the typical gymnast you see every day,” she says. “Just knowing that as a gymnast, not everything is going to be perfect. It’s okay if you fail. It’s okay if you have those times where you doubt yourself because at the end it’s only going to make you stronger.”

Also Read: Plagued By Suic*dal Thoughts, Jordan Chiles Explains Harrowing Reality Of Being Pushed To Self-H*rm

Being a voice, and helping other people through her stories, has been a peace in itself for Jordan Chiles. “It gives us a better opportunity and to have fun,“ Jordan adds as she continues to thrive.

Watch this story: Inching Closer to Simone Biles and Shilese Jones, Gymnastics’ Rising Star Unveils Her Next Steps