Carlos Yulo made history and sealed his place among the legends of Philippine sports.
The dynamic gymnast achieved a groundbreaking feat, becoming the first Filipino athlete to win two gold medals at the Paris Olympics. This historic accomplishment came during the country’s centennial participation in the Summer Games, underscoring its significance.
At just 24 years old, Yulo clinched double gold in the men’s floor exercise and vault, leading the Philippines to a milestone never before achieved in the annals of the Olympic Games.
In recognition of his unparalleled achievement, Yulo has been named the 2024 Athlete of the Year by the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA). The award will be presented at the PSA Awards Night on January 27, 2025, at the Manila Hotel’s grand ballroom.
This honor makes Yulo the first gymnast to receive the title since Pia Adelle Reyes in 1997, a testament to his exceptional performance. The PSA’s annual gala is supported by major sponsors, including San Miguel Corporation, ArenaPlus, Cignal, and MediaQuest.
The event will also celebrate other outstanding figures in Philippine sports, with awards such as NSA of the Year, Major Awardees, President’s Award, and Executive of the Year. Special recognitions will include Filipino Olympians and Paralympians from the Paris Games.
PSA President Nelson Beltran of The Philippine Star praised Yulo’s achievements, stating, “From a great Olympic performance to an even greater Olympic show, Carlos Yulo’s monumental accomplishment deserves the highest accolades.”
Yulo’s journey to Olympic glory was years in the making. After debuting at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he narrowly missed a medal in the men’s vault final, Yulo returned stronger in Paris.
In the floor exercise, he scored a remarkable 15.000 points to defeat reigning champion Artem Dolgopyat of Israel. Days later, he secured another gold in the vault final with an impressive 15.116 points, outclassing Armenia’s Arthur Davtyan.
These victories etched Yulo’s name in history as one of the greatest Filipino athletes of all time, standing alongside icons like Hidilyn Diaz, who delivered the country’s first Olympic gold in Tokyo.
Yulo’s remarkable journey continues to inspire the nation, a true symbol of Filipino excellence and determination.
