Simone Biles Issues Clear Demand on Jordan Chiles Medal Controversy

Simone Biles is offering strong support to her friend and fellow gymnast Jordan Chiles during Chiles' fight to retain her bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The ordeal began after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled on Aug. 10 in favor of two Romanian gymnasts who had contested Chiles' score in the floor exercise final.

In an interview with PEOPLE about her partnership with haircare brand K18, Biles shared that she has been in constant communication with Chiles throughout the tough situation.

“We’ve been FaceTiming, texting, just being girls,” Biles, 27, told PEOPLE exclusively. “I did talk to her on one of the days, and I was like, ‘You know what, Jordan, you have to feel all these feels. Don’t let these emotions stop you. This will be the healthiest way to get all of this out.’”

Biles, an 11-time Olympic medalist and a strong advocate for therapy, emphasized that despite the controversy, Chiles remains resilient and determined.

“We saw what you did,” Biles said of Chiles. “And it’s an unfortunate circumstance because something like this has never happened before, and it’s truly a shame, but we wish all three girls could get the medal, and unfortunately, in gymnastics, that’s not the case."

Biles further expressed her discontent with the ruling process.

“Do we think they did the correct procedures to come to this ruling? No. That’s really why we want that justice for Jordan and why we’re going to keep supporting her and uplifting her.”

Biles praised Chiles for her "personality, grit, and heart," qualities that will be on display when the Gold Across America tour begins next month. Until then, Biles is resting an injured calf and using her downtime to encourage Chiles, sending her messages and tokens of support.

Related: Jordan Chiles Fires Back at Critics Following Olympic Bronze Medal Controversy