Carlos Yulo basks in his ‘perfect moment’ at Paris Olympics
Philippines’ Carlos Edriel Yulo reacts after winning the artistic gymnastics men’s floor exercise final during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Bercy Arena in Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines—Carlos Yulo described his historic gold medal win in the Paris Olympics 2024 men’s artistic gymnastics floor exercise final in one word: Perfect.
“This isn’t the perfect competition but this is the perfect moment for me,” said Yulo in Filipino with One Sports.
Article continues after this advertisement“It’s really overwhelming to have this experience. I always say experience, experience and there’s no problem there but this is the one that will leave a mark in my heart and the whole Philippines.”
READ: Carlos Yulo ‘overwhelmed’ as he wins historic gymnastics gold
With Team Philippines’ medal hopes resting on Yulo’s broad shoulders, the 24-year-old pulled off his best performance in his young career.
Yulo tallied 15.000 points to seal the Philippines’ first gold medal in the Paris Games and became the first Filipino gymnast to make the podium in the Olympics.
Article continues after this advertisementBut making history, however, was certainly no easy task.
“I couldn’t sleep properly for two days because of this. I was always nervous but I’m grateful that I didn’t quit on the challenges,” said Yulo.
READ: With gold, Carlos Yulo puts PH greatness on world stage anew
“I showed up and this is the result I got but I’m not the only one who won this.”
While Yulo’s Saturday night win was one for the books, he has one more shot at further solidifying his legacy.
It’s easy to get lost in euphoria after such a historic victory but for Yulo, there’s one more job to do.
“I’m going to do the same [things], have fun and hope for the best.”
Yulo will be competing in the vault apparatus of the men’s artistic gymnastic events.
Follow Inquirer Sports’ special coverage of the Paris Olympics 2024.
