Carlos Yulo Makes History as First Filipino Man to Win Olympic Gold in Gymnastics

Carlos Edriel Yulo made history on Saturday by winning the men's floor exercise final at the Paris Games, becoming the first Filipino man to earn an Olympic gold medal. Yulo's outstanding performance not only marked the Philippines' first-ever Olympic medal in gymnastics but also secured the country's second top prize across both the Summer and Winter Games.

The 24-year-old gymnast delivered a near-flawless routine, opening with a high-flying 2-1/2 double piked front somersault and finishing with a stunning 3-1/2 twisting forward somersault. Yulo's score of 15.000 set a standard that his competitors could not match, ensuring his place at the top of the podium.

Yulo, who had parted ways with his longtime coach Munehiro Kugiyama just before the 2023 World Championships, trained independently with some of the sport's best athletes. His return to Manila between travels helped him reconnect with his Filipino teammates, though on Saturday, it was Yulo alone who captivated the audience at the Bercy Arena in Paris.

As each performer attempted to surpass his score, Yulo remained in the lead. When the final scores confirmed his victory, Yulo erupted with emotion, roaring in triumph and breaking into tears. On the podium, with the gold medal—a hefty prize due to the inlaid piece of the Eiffel Tower—hanging around his neck, Yulo raised his hands in triumph, still appearing in disbelief.

In addition to the gold medal, Yulo will receive a house from the government as a reward for his achievement. This historic victory follows weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz's gold medal at the Tokyo Games three years ago, adding to the Philippines' growing legacy in Olympic success.

"I don't know what to say," Yulo admitted, reflecting on his groundbreaking accomplishment. "We are a really small country, so to be able to get a gold medal for us is huge. I dedicate this to the Filipino people who supported me."

Yulo's performance on Saturday not only made him a national hero but also set a new standard for Filipino athletes on the world stage.