A Glittering Bid That Didn’t Land the Trophy
The 34th season of Dancing with the Stars brought unprecedented excitement — and for many fans, hopes were high that Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles and her professional dance partner Ezra Sosa would clinch the Mirrorball Trophy.
But when the final results rolled in, the duo placed third, finishing behind the winners Robert Irwin & Witney Carson and runners-up Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy — even after delivering one of their strongest performances of the season.
What made their loss all the more surprising was the presence of an unexpected ally: singer Normani. Her cameo during the finale — and the energy it added to their routine — seemed like it could tip the scales in their favor.
But in the world of ballroom dance and fan votes, even a dazzling performance isn’t always enough.
The Final Night: Near‑Perfect, But Not Enough
On the night of the finale, Chiles and Sosa delivered a powerful three‑round performance: the Instant Dance Challenge, Judges’ Choice, and their freestyle. In the Instant Dance and Freestyle rounds, they scored a flawless 30/30.
Their Judges’ Choice round was equally strong — a 29/30. Many presumed this might seal the deal. Indeed, during the Freestyle, one of the judges proclaimed it “the best Freestyle I’ve seen in 20 seasons, hands down,” prompting a huge crowd reaction.
The display of emotion, athleticism, and artistic passion left the audience on its feet.
Yet, even with those near‑perfect marks, Chiles and Sosa only managed a third place finish.
According to EssentiallySports, they lagged behind in overall ranking compared to Robert Irwin & Witney Carson, who had built momentum with the highest semifinal score — a pattern that this season, as in previous ones, strongly indicated who would take home the Mirrorball. EssentiallySports+1
In fact, pre‑final predictions from the forecasting site Gold Derby had already pegged Robert & Witney as heavy favorites, giving them a 92.5 % chance of winning. Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa were seen as longshots, with just a 2.5 % probability.
The Normani Effect: Boost — But Not Breakthrough
One of the most talked‑about moments was the surprise appearance by Normani.
Her unexpected cameo during the finale — and the energy she reportedly brought — helped amplify the duo’s performance, especially in their Freestyle set to “Motivation.” Many thought this surge of star power could push them over the top. EssentiallySports+2The Sun+2
And yet, while the crowd responded, and the judges lauded the routine, it ultimately wasn’t enough.
This illustrates a recurring reality in dance‑competition shows: while celebrity cameos and fan buzz can help generate attention, the ultimate decision often hinges on consistency, scoring history, and overall viewer votes — not just peak moments.
From Gymnastics Gold to Ballroom Grace
Jordan Chiles’s journey to the DWTS dance floor was never about doing just another celebrity stint — it was about proving she’s more than her gymnastics accolades. A decorated athlete with Olympic medals, Chiles accepted the DWTS invitation partly inspired by past gymnasts who had made a successful crossover.
From the very first week, she told her partner Ezra Sosa: “We’re going to make it to the finale … watch.” And they did. PFSN+1
Throughout the season, Chiles faced challenges balancing her gymnastics career at UCLA Bruins and intense dance training. Still, she embraced DWTS as a platform to grow, learn, and show a different side of herself. By the time finals came, her growth was palpable.
As her partner Ezra wrote after they secured their spot in the finale, “I have so much gratitude … I couldn’t have done this without you.” Sportskeeda+1
Even more, Chiles hinted that this dance experience might influence her future gymnastics routines — combining her athletic background with ballroom’s fluidity, bringing a fresh artistic style to her floor routines.
Why It Still Matters: Legacy Beyond the Trophy
Finishing third on DWTS — for a gymnast — is no small feat. Chiles and Sosa proved that athletic discipline, artistry, and vulnerability can transcend the boundaries between sport and performance. The applause from fans, the standing ovations, and praise from judges reflect a performance that moved many.
Furthermore, their run will likely influence how future gymnasts view opportunities beyond competition mats. By stepping onto the dance floor, Chiles showed that career evolution doesn’t mean leaving gymnastics behind — it means expanding one’s expression in new ways.
And while they didn’t claim the Mirrorball Trophy, they earned something more enduring: respect.
The Mirrorball Goes to Robert & Witney — But Chiles & Sosa Win Hearts
In the end, it was Robert Irwin and Witney Carson who took home the Mirrorball Trophy, marking the conclusion of a widely watched and much celebrated season.
But for Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa, the finale may not represent the end — but rather a milestone. A milestone proving that excellence in sport and grace in dance aren’t mutually exclusive.
Their journey resonated not just because of flawless scores or a surprise guest cameo — but because of heart, commitment, and transformation.
As new seasons of DWTS and gymnastics unfold, their performance will remain a testament to what happens when athletes dare to dream beyond their comfort zone — and let the music carry them.
“An incredible journey, filled with unforgettable moments — Jordan Chiles finishes THIRD on this season of Dancing with the Stars!”
