Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) President Cynthia Carrion has confirmed that two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo will not compete in the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand.
In a Manila Bulletin-Tempo report on Saturday, October 18, Carrion said the decision came directly from Yulo himself.
“Yes, it is confirmed. Carlos decided that he will not join,” Carrion stated.
She explained that Yulo opted to give way to his teammates to allow them the opportunity to shine on the international stage.
“Carlos wants to give chances for his team to win it and with him there will remove the chances for his teammates that can win it,” Carrion added.
The announcement follows the recent rule changes by the SEA Games Federation, which now limits gymnasts to compete in only one apparatus in the men’s artistic category.
“Carlos cannot compete in all. He can only compete in one apparatus. They’re only giving everybody one apparatus,” Carrion said, noting that the restriction significantly affects Yulo, who has historically dominated multiple events.
“Because if they give Carlos all, he’s going to win all. And nobody will win anything anymore,” she remarked, expressing frustration at what she suggested was an unfair restriction on the Filipino gymnast’s capabilities.
Yulo’s younger brother, Karl Eldrew, is among the athletes expected to lead Team Philippines in gymnastics, alongside Juancho Besana and Ivan Cruz.
The 33rd SEA Games will take place from December 9 to 20, 2025, in Thailand.
