EJ Obiena Expresses Regret Over Missed Medal Opportunity at Paris Olympics

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MANILA, Philippines — EJ Obiena was visibly emotional and apologetic after falling short of winning a medal in the men’s pole vault final at the Paris Olympics 2024, which took place early Tuesday (Manila time) at the Stade de France.


Heartbreaking Near Miss


Obiena narrowly missed out on a bronze medal by just one attempt, which would have ended the Philippines' 88-year wait for an Olympic medal in athletics. After successfully clearing 5.90 meters, he was unable to surpass the 5.95-meter mark in three attempts, ultimately finishing in fourth place.


"It's heartbreaking. Missing a medal by one jump is tough, especially when I was so close with my attempts at 5.95 meters," Obiena shared in an interview with ONE Sports PH.


Obiena's Performance


"I apologize. I promised to come back stronger after Tokyo. I did improve, but it still wasn't enough. I'm really sorry," said the world No. 2 pole vaulter, who previously finished 11th in the Tokyo Olympics.


Greece's Emmanouil Karalis, ranked eighth in the world, also cleared 5.90 meters but secured the bronze due to fewer failed attempts.


In the days leading up to the Olympics, Obiena revealed he had been dealing with "various physical issues," but the 28-year-old believed it was his inconsistency that ultimately cost him a medal.


"There's been a lot going on this year. I'm grateful I made it to the final, definitely. But I'm also disappointed because it was so close. It was literally the same height, and I missed it by one attempt. One attempt to an Olympic medal," Obiena reflected.


World Record Achievements


"I think it's about overall consistency. I missed one crucial attempt. Sports can be beautiful but also brutal. I understand that. Consistency is what I lacked. I felt like I needed a bit more time, but the Olympics doesn't wait for anyone. I'm just doing everything I can," he added.


As expected, Sweden's Mondo Duplantis took the gold by breaking his own world record with a 6.25-meter clearance. This marked the ninth time Duplantis, 24, had set a new world record.


The United States' Sam Kendricks secured the silver with a jump of 5.95 meters.


Looking Ahead


"Even with fourth place, I'd say I've given my all to be where I am, and I'm proud of the effort from my team, myself, and everyone who made this possible. But it doesn't make it any less painful," said Obiena, who holds the Asian record at 6.00 meters.


"I'm happy for everyone who won medals; they deserve it. I'm happy for my friends. But it doesn't lessen the pain for me," he concluded.

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