Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo delivered a spectacular performance, earning the Philippines its first gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Yulo’s flawless routine in the men’s floor exercise finals on Saturday night at the Bercy Arena earned him a remarkable score of 15.000, securing his place atop the podium.
Carlos’ father, Mark Andrew Yulo, expressed his overwhelming joy and pride following his son’s monumental victory. Despite his ecstatic celebration, he revealed that he was not entirely surprised by Carlos’ achievement.
“Masaya [ako] kasi matagal na panahon na ni Caloy na nire-ready [‘yung sarili niya] simula nu’ng 2020 Japan Olympics. Four years niyang tiniis ‘yan, talagang pinagpaguran ng bata,” Mark Andrew shared.
Carlos Yulo dedicated the past three years to perfecting his routine, aiming for redemption after a disappointing performance in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where he failed to qualify for the finals in his signature event. The floor exercise has been one of Yulo’s greatest strengths, as evidenced by his victories in the 2019 World Championships, three Asian Championships, and two Southeast Asian Games.
“Deserve niya ‘yan. Dugo at pawis ‘yung pinaghirapan ni Caloy diyan, talagang gustong-gusto niya makuha ‘yan,” Mark Andrew added.
Carlos Yulo’s gold medal marks only the second time a Filipino athlete has won gold at the Olympics, following weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz’s historic victory in Tokyo. It is also the first medal for the Philippines in the Paris Olympics. Yulo still has a chance to add another medal to his collection in the vault finals scheduled for Sunday.
Carlos Yulo’s triumph is not just a personal victory but also a proud moment for his family and the entire Philippines, symbolizing hope and excellence in the nation’s sporting achievements.
