Olympic champion Carlos Yulo withdraws from SEA Games 33

Philippine gymnastics star Carlos Yulo will not compete in the 33rd SEA Games in December because of new rules by host Thailand that limit each gymnast to only one gold medal.

Carlos Yulo decided to withdraw from SEA Games 33 - Photo: Infor

Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carreon said in a text message to One Sports on October 18: "I talked to Carlos Yulo about the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand and he decided not to participate. Thailand does not think about the athletes. They only think about the medals they can win."

According to earlier reports in the Philippine media, host country Thailand has introduced a new rule that limits gymnasts like Carlos Yulo to only one gold medal. They also canceled the team event where the Philippines was considered the favorite to win.

Previously, Carlos Yulo (25 years old) participated in the SEA Games 3 times, winning 9 gold medals and 9 silver medals.

At the most recent SEA Games in Cambodia in 2023, Yulo also won 2 gold medals and 2 silver medals. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, this athlete also won 2 gold medals in the floor show and vault events.

Therefore, Yulo's absence is considered a huge loss for the Philippines. But according to GAP, they fully support his decision.

Ms. Cynthia Carreon said: "He (Yulo) cannot compete in all events because Thailand is very smart, they only allow each athlete to participate in one event in the final... If they let Yulo compete in all events, he will win all of them."

QUOC THANG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/nha-vo-dich-olympic-carlos-yulo-rut-lui-khoi-sea-games-33-20251019031811577.htm