Philippine Gymnastics Legend Holds Back Pain to Participate in SEA Games 32

Carlos Yulo admitted that he has not fully recovered from his injury, but still aims to win two gold medals in Cambodia.

"I think I'm about 85 to 90 percent recovered from the injury. Sometimes I still feel pain but I think everything will be fine," Yulo told the Inquirer while in Phnom Penh.

Yulo won five gold medals at the 31st SEA Games but was only allowed to compete in four events this year. Photo: SEA GAMES POOL

The 23-year-old star is struggling with a left ankle injury, forcing him to withdraw from the recent Gymnastics World Cup held in Cairo, Egypt. However, Yulo affirmed that he will complete the targets set by the coaching staff.

Yulo is the Philippines’ most decorated gold medalist in the last two SEA Games. In 2019, on home soil, Yulo won the all-around and freestyle mat events. Last year, he won five gold medals in the all-around, mat, rings, vault, and horizontal bars.

"I haven't practiced freestyle mat for the past two and a half weeks. I landed well, but felt a sting in my foot when I kicked. Only this event I had problems. The others were fine," Yulo shared.

Yulo will not be able to repeat his achievement of winning 5 gold medals this year because the SEA Games organizing committee only allowed him to compete in four events: all-around, parallel bars, horizontal bars and men's team. However, coach of the Philippine gymnastics team Reyland Capellan is not sure that Yulo's presence will guarantee him a gold medal in these four events.

"I won't be able to repeat my performance last year. However, despite the limitations, I want to show the strength of Philippine Gymnastics. My goal is to win the all-around and team events. We will focus on those two gold medals," Yulo said.

Vinh San (according to Inquire )

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