It’s been a long time in the making, but Carlos Yulo can finally call himself an Olympic champion. And it was impossible for him to hold back the tears. 

After rocking his floor routine — capped off with a stuck 3.5 twist (15.000) — the 24-year-old nabbed the first Olympic medal for the Philippines in gymnastics and only the second Olympic gold medal in the country's Olympic history. Yulo is the first man to win an Olympic gold medal for the Philippines.

"I'm so overwhelmed," Yulo said after the competition. "I'm feeling grateful for having this medal and for God. He protected me, as always. He gave me the strength to get through this kind of performance and perform this well."

Yulo knocked off Tokyo Olympic champion Artem Dolgopyat of Israel, who improved his performance from the qualification round by five tenths, but gave away too many tenths on his landings to defend his title. Dolgopyat took home the silver (14.966). 

Great Britain’s Jake Jarman entered the final as the top qualifier and impressed with his high level of difficulty — including a triple twisting double layout and a triple twisting double tuck. Jarman, however, did not stick any of his landings and was unable to top Yulo in the end. Jarman finished third (14.933), securing the first Olympic medal of his career.

The Significance of Yulo's Achievement

Yulo's victory in the men's floor exercise final is a historic moment for the Philippines. This is the country's first Olympic medal in gymnastics and only the second Olympic gold medal in its history. Yulo has etched his name in the record books as the first Filipino man to win an Olympic gold medal in gymnastics. It was a moment of national pride for the Philippines, as the country celebrated this monumental achievement.

Yulo's Journey to the Podium

Yulo's journey to the Olympic podium has been filled with both triumphs and setbacks. He has battled with consistency and delivering in the most important moments, which he acknowledges. He has faced heartbreaks, such as last year's World Championships, where he finished last in the all-around during qualifications, counting a 0.000 on the vault. He has also experienced breakthroughs, such as his first gold on the floor exercise at the 2019 Worlds. Despite these challenges, Yulo has persevered, and his dedication and hard work have finally paid off in Paris.

Yulo's Eye on More Glory

Yulo's victory is not only a testament to his talent and hard work but also to his unwavering belief in himself. He has overcome obstacles and setbacks and has emerged stronger and more determined. His focus now shifts to the vault final, where he aims to add another gold medal to his already impressive collection. Yulo has proven that he is a force to be reckoned with on the world stage, and the Philippines is holding its breath in anticipation for what he might achieve next.

A Touch of History in Women's Gymnastics

Simone Biles has cemented her legacy as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, securing her seventh Olympic gold medal in the women's vault final. It was a moment of pure dominance, as she displayed her immense talent and skill, leaving no doubt about her mastery of the event.

Biles' triumph in the vault final adds another chapter to her already legendary career, showcasing her exceptional ability and resilience. This victory not only solidifies her place as a sporting icon but also inspires aspiring gymnasts around the world, highlighting the potential of hard work and dedication.

Biles' Vaulting Dominance

The vault final was a display of power, precision, and technique, with Biles showcasing her signature Yurchenko double pike, a move that requires a high level of difficulty and skill. The judges awarded her a score of 15.700, setting a high bar for the rest of the competitors. Biles' second vault, a Cheng, was just as impressive, as she landed it with a small hop on the landing. She secured the gold medal with an average score of 15.300, further solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of gymnastics.

Andrade and Carey's Podium Finish

Rebeca Andrade of Brazil, who finished runner-up to Biles in the all-around final, earned the silver medal, showcasing her own exceptional skills and power on the vault. Jade Carey of the United States, who was looking for redemption after a disappointing performance in Tokyo, took home the bronze medal, performing two of the best vaults of her career. Their achievements reflect the high level of competition in women's gymnastics, where every gymnast is striving to reach the top.

A New Champion Emerges on the Pommel Horse

Rhys McClenaghan of Ireland, a two-time world champion, has now added an Olympic gold medal to his impressive list of accomplishments. He delivered a flawless routine on the pommel horse, earning a massive score of 15.533. The victory marks a historic moment for Ireland, as it is their first Olympic medal in gymnastics.

McClenaghan's Historic Performance

McClenaghan's performance was a testament to his dedication and hard work, as he executed every movement with precision and control. His routine was a display of power, grace, and technical expertise, captivating the audience and judges alike. McClenaghan's win not only earned him the gold medal but also marked a significant achievement for Irish gymnastics, inspiring a new generation of gymnasts.

Nedoroscik's Bronze Medal

Stephen Nedoroscik, a standout American gymnast, finished with a bronze medal, showcasing his exceptional skill and composure on the pommel horse. Nedoroscik's performance reflected his consistent improvement and commitment to the sport. The bronze medal is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it cements his position as one of the top pommel horse gymnasts in the world.

A Day of Gymnastics Glory

The gymnastics events at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games have been filled with exhilarating performances, unexpected twists, and historic moments. From Yulo's groundbreaking gold medal to Biles' continued dominance, and McClenaghan's historic win, the gymnasts have showcased the sport's beauty, athleticism, and power. These competitions have not only produced memorable moments for the athletes and their countries but have also inspired a new generation of gymnasts, setting the stage for even more exciting events in the years to come.