Karl Eldrew Yulo delivered a breakthrough performance at the 3rd FIG Junior World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, clinching a bronze medal in the floor exercise final held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City. The young Filipino standout posted 13.733 points from a 5.300 difficulty and 8.433 execution, securing a spot on the podium in front of a supportive home crowd.
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Strong Performance Under Pressure
The result marked not only Yulo’s first medal at the world junior level but also the Philippines’ maiden podium finish since the tournament began, giving the host nation a proud moment in its own backyard.
The road to bronze was far from easy for the 18-year-old, who entered the event while still nursing an ankle injury he sustained during the all-around final where he placed eighth. Despite the pain, he delivered a composed routine that kept him firmly in medal contention.
“I really don’t know what to say because this is not just any competition, so I’m really emotional,” Yulo shared, expressing how meaningful the achievement was for him and his family.
Chinese gymnast Yang Lanbin secured the gold with 13.833, while Simone Speranza of Italy took silver with 13.766. Yulo’s earlier scores, 14.233 in qualification and 14.300 in the all-around, had placed him among the favorites, but the injury noticeably affected his final output.
Overcoming Injury and Carrying the Flag
Even with the discomfort, Yulo pushed through, determined to finish what he started for the country. He acknowledged that his performance dipped from earlier rounds, but emphasized the significance of standing on the podium despite the setback.
“My ankle still hurts, but we managed to compete, and we still managed to get bronze even though I injured myself yesterday, but we’re Filipinos, we’ll fight to the very end,” he remarked.
His medal finish was also influenced by the slip of Russian contender Arsenii Dukhno, who topped both qualifying and the all-around but settled for fourth after an unsteady routine. As Yulo watched the final results unfold, he admitted to feeling anxious yet grateful for the outcome.
“I was biting my nails, and I was just thinking that fifth or fourth place isn’t bad since I did my best and still competed with an injury,” he said. “I’m thankful to the Lord that he gave me this opportunity and the strength to fight. I’m still shaking because even though it’s just bronze, even if I don’t get to hear the Philippine national anthem in the awarding ceremony, I still get to raise our flag.”
As the Philippines continues to nurture its next generation of gymnasts, Yulo’s bronze medal becomes more than just a personal triumph; it’s a milestone that elevates the nation’s presence in international sports and fuels hope for future victories.
