USB-C charger suddenly doesn't fit AirPods Pro Charging Case

I bought new set of AirPod Pro (2nd Generation) in early December 2024, equipped with a USB-C charging port. All has worked fine until last night when I inserted the charging cord into the case and it didn't fit. It's as though something is impinging the complete insertion of the cord end into the charging port. There was one suggestion on an earlier post to try 'cleaning' the port with a toothpick, which I tried, but to no avail. I've tried various different USB-C cord and none fit. I don't recall dropping the case on any hard surface or getting it wet or any other improper use.

Additionally, I have a charging pad that I use and, previously, when I've set the new case on the pad, it 'pings' when first set down - now it doesn't, so I don't know if it's actually charging. My phone says the case is currently at 98%, so I'll have to keep track to determine if the case is charging on the pad.

Any clues as to why I can't get a cord into the port?

Thank you!