Yulo targets first Asian Games medal in Aichi-Nagoya

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 24, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

PHILIPPINES – Two-time Olympic champion Carlos Yulo is setting his sights on an elusive Asian Games medal as he returns to the continental competition at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Yulo has already won major titles at the Olympics, World Championships, World Cup, Asian Championships and Southeast Asian Games, but an Asian Games medal remains missing from his collection.

“Wala pa kasi ako title sa Asian Games eh. ’Yun po ang gino-goal ko. Makakuha ng medal sa floor, vault, at all-around,” Yulo said.

Yulo last competed in the Asian Games in 2018, where he finished fourth in vault and seventh in floor exercise after committing landing errors despite topping the qualification in his specialty event.

Looking back at that campaign, Yulo said he wants to use his experience to perform better this time.

“Gusto kong bumawi sa Asian Games. Kasi ’yung naging experience ko nga noong 2018, gusto ko din ibawi ’yung sarili ko. Kung sino din po ako right now, gusto ko din po i-challenge ’yung kakayahan ko,” he said.

Yulo said he has also grown significantly since his 2018 debut, particularly in terms of experience, self-control and confidence.

“Siguro po ’yung control sa sarili din. Wala pa po noon,” he said, adding that he now has more experience competing at the senior level and a better understanding of what he needs to do.

Despite his achievements, Yulo expects a tough competition in Aichi-Nagoya, particularly against gymnasts from China, Japan and South Korea.

“I know it’s gonna be hard, especially all-around. But hindi din malabo na magawa natin or makakuha tayo ng medal. Hindi lang siya madali, pero may chance po tayo,” Yulo said.

He added that his goal is to deliver the performance he wants while keeping the athletes safe throughout the competition.

The 2026 Asian Games will also mark another milestone for the Yulo family, with Carlos set to compete alongside his younger brother Eldrew, who will make his Asian Games debut.

Joining the Yulo brothers in the Philippine men’s artistic gymnastics team are SEA Games gold medalist Miguel Besana, SEA Games bronze medalist Justine Ace De Leon, and Fil-Am gymnast Zachary Nunez.