The Philippines will not have Carlos Yulo leading its gymnastics team in the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, as the multi-medalist has decided to skip the biennial event.

The Gymnastics Association of the Philippines confirmed the development, stating that Yulo opted out due to new rules imposed by the organizers.

Unlike in previous editions, the upcoming SEA Games in Thailand will limit athletes to just one apparatus each.

“The SEA Games should be a festive occasion for us and Carlos wants to give his teammates a chance to win since they can only compete in one apparatus,” the association stated.

“The saddest part is that there is no team competition, which is the most exciting and we had a big chance to win like we did in Vietnam.”

Yulo, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, has won multiple medals in the SEA Games, including two golds and two silvers in the Cambodia edition in 2023 where he won the individual all-around and parallel bars.

This year, however, Yulo is stepping aside to make room for his teammates as the Philippines aims to continue its dominance in gymnastics.

He will still compete in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta, which begin tomorrow.

Southeast Asian (SEA) Games

The Southeast Asian (SEA) Games is a biennial multi-sport event involving athletes from the 11 countries of Southeast Asia. First held in 1959 as the Southeast Asian Peninsular Games, the event was established to promote cooperation and understanding among countries in the region. It has since grown into the region’s premier sporting competition, featuring a wide range of Olympic and traditional local sports.

Philippines

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian archipelago nation with a rich history shaped by indigenous cultures, over 300 years of Spanish colonial rule, and subsequent American influence. This diverse heritage is reflected in its historic landmarks, such as the Baroque churches and the ancient Banaue Rice Terraces. The country is renowned for its vibrant festivals, warm hospitality, and unique blend of Eastern and Western traditions.

Thailand

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country known for its tropical beaches, ornate Buddhist temples, and ancient ruins. Its history is deeply rooted in powerful kingdoms like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, which established Theravada Buddhism and a unique cultural identity. It is notable for being the only nation in Southeast Asia never to have been colonized by a European power.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country with a rich history shaped by millennia of Chinese influence, French colonial rule, and the Vietnam War. Its culture is a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions, Confucian principles, and a deep-seated national identity. Today, it is known for its bustling cities, stunning natural landscapes like Ha Long Bay, and a resilient spirit.

Cambodia

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation most famous for the magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat, the heart of the ancient Khmer Empire which dominated the region from the 9th to 15th centuries. The country’s more recent history was tragically marked by the brutal Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Today, Cambodia is known for its rich cultural heritage, resilient people, and stunning archaeological sites.

World Artistic Gymnastics Championships

The World Artistic Gymnastics Championships is the premier global competition for the sport, organized by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG). First held in 1903 for men and 1934 for women, the championships have evolved to become an annual event, showcasing the world’s best gymnasts competing for individual and team titles.

Jakarta

Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia, located on the northwest coast of Java. Historically known as Sunda Kelapa and later Batavia under Dutch colonial rule, it served as the capital of the Dutch East Indies and became the center for the Indonesian struggle for independence. Today, it is a bustling, sprawling metropolis that functions as the country’s political and economic hub.