PARIS, France — Carlos Yulo achieved another historic milestone after winning the men’s artistic gymnastics vault final at the Bercy Arena on Sunday, August 4. This victory makes Yulo the Philippines’ first double Olympic gold champion.

Leveraging his stellar floor exercise performance, Yulo, 24, clinched a second gold medal in the vault (15.116), surpassing Armenia’s Artur Davtyan (14.966) and Great Britain’s Harry Hepworth (14.949).

Yulo’s vault victory came just one day after he secured gold in the floor exercise, marking the Philippines’ first Olympic medal. This achievement ensures the nation will surpass its 2021 Tokyo performance, where legendary weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz won the country’s first-ever gold medal.

“Felt like a bonus” — Yulo

On Sunday, the gold medalist expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his journey.

“I’m grateful for the people who truly believed in me through the ups and downs,” Yulo said. “This one is the sweetest, I think.”

“I was just hoping to perform well (today). I didn’t really expect a medal. It really felt like a bonus for me. It’s crazy, because last night I couldn’t sleep,” Yulo admitted.

“I was so hyped because I had (won) that gold medal (on floor),” Yulo added. “It still didn’t sink in. This morning I was so sleepy. I didn’t know what to do. But I did it today.”

Rewards Rain After Yulo’s Victory

Yulo has received substantial rewards from various companies and national institutions in recognition of his achievement.

In accordance with Republic Act 10699, the Philippine government announced that it would award Yulo PHP 10 million for winning a gold medal.

Yulo will also receive an “Olympic Gold Medal of Valor” from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Furthermore, the House of Representatives will provide Yulo with PHP 3 million in cash incentives.

“In recognition of his historic accomplishment, the House of Representatives is honored to award Carlos Yulo P3,000,000. This reward reflects our support for his continued success and our commitment to fostering Filipino talent on the international stage,” said Representative Elizaldy Co, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, in a statement on Saturday.

Yulo will also receive a “congressional medal for his exceptional achievement and contribution to Philippine sports,” according to Speaker Martin Romualdez.

“Caloy has earned this reward through sheer hard work and unmatched talent. This incentive is a testament to our unwavering support for Filipino athletes who strive for greatness on the global stage,” the Speaker noted.

In addition to government support, private companies have also joined in. Megaworld Corp., the property giant owned by Andrew Tan, is awarding Yulo a P24 million fully furnished two-bedroom residential condominium apartment in Bonifacio Global City.

Yulo’s list of rewards may continue to grow, similar to the ongoing support received by Hidilyn Diaz following her historic victory in Tokyo four years ago.

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