Highly decorated Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo has officially withdrawn from the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand. His decision stems from a contentious rule implemented by the host nation, which controversially limits the multi-medalist to winning only one gold medal in his gymnastics events during the competition.
Cynthia Carreon, President of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP), confirmed Yulo’s withdrawal to Rappler on October 18. She stated that the 25-year-old athlete would not be participating in the Thai edition of the Games, expressing strong disapproval of Thailand’s approach.
Carreon critically remarked that the host nation’s primary intention appeared to be maximizing its own medal count, specifically by placing restrictions on the potential of top-tier athletes like Yulo. This perceived strategic move to limit a dominant competitor ultimately led to Yulo’s firm decision to pull out of the regional sporting event.
Elaborating on the situation, Carreon stated, ‘He will not be participating in the 33rd SEA Games. Thailand has not considered the participation of athletes from other countries. They are solely focused on how they can secure as many medals as possible for themselves.’
Reports from Philippine media had previously indicated that Thailand, as the host, had moved to restrict Carlos Yulo’s participation in multiple events. Despite his readiness for both individual and team competitions, the Thai organizers implemented measures, particularly in gymnastics—a discipline where the Philippines, largely through Yulo, has a strong potential to secure numerous medals. These restrictions specifically capped strong competitors like Yulo, allowing him the opportunity to win only a single gold medal across all gymnastics categories.
Yulo has a storied history at the SEA Games, having participated in three previous editions of the biennial event. Across these appearances, he has amassed an impressive total of nine gold and nine silver medals. His most recent outing was at the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia in 2023, where he secured two gold and two silver medals. Notably, even host nation Cambodia had placed limits on his potential medal haul during that event, restricting him to competing for only four medals out of seven possible gymnastics events.
Regarding Thailand’s imposition of the single-gold medal limit, GAP President Carreon did not mince words, suggesting the host nation was apprehensive about the 25-year-old gymnast sweeping all the gold medals. ‘They are limiting Carlos to the possibility of winning only one medal,’ Carreon stated. ‘If they allowed Carlos to compete and win medals in all events, Carlos would undoubtedly claim all the gold medals. This is precisely why they are only offering him the opportunity for a single gold medal.’
Currently, Carlos Yulo, alongside his teammates from the Philippine gymnastics contingent, is competing for medals at the World Gymnastics Championships in Indonesia. This prestigious international event is taking place from October 19-25.
