Carlos Yulo Plans to Return to Japan After Olympic Success; Shares Why He is Grateful to Japan

October 3, 2024 Philippines Sports

Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo is gearing up for his return to Japan, a country that has played a pivotal role in shaping his career and personal growth. Having recently triumphed at the Paris Olympics, where he won two gold medals, Yulo is eager to express his gratitude and relive fond memories, including indulging in his favorite ramen.

During a celebration dinner hosted by the Japan embassy on October 1, 2024, Yulo shared his excitement about returning to Japan. “Japan is really special to my heart. It really helped me to boost my gymnastics, and of course, my personality as well,” Yulo was quoted as saying in a report published by Rappler. His deep appreciation for the country stems from the years he spent there, honing his skills and immersing himself in Japanese culture.

Yulo moved to Japan at the age of 16 to pursue his gymnastics dreams. Reflecting on his time there, he said, “I’m really grateful for the people that I met there. I learned skills, their culture, how they speak, how they move. I’m really grateful for that, and for the help that they gave to me, and the knowledge that I acquired now, and all the winnings that I accomplished.” His fluency in Japanese is a testament to the bond he formed with the culture and its people.

The evening’s gathering was made even more special as Yulo received a citation from Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Endo Kazuya, and his wife, Akiko. The citation honored Yulo “for his outstanding contribution to the world of sports and Philippines-Japan relations.” This recognition highlights not only his athletic achievements but also the cultural connections he has fostered between the two nations.

One of Yulo’s main stops during his visit will be Teikyo University in Tokyo, where he received a scholarship that significantly impacted his gymnastics journey. “I’m going to the university to say thank you for the support they gave me, and of course, for the scholarship they gave me, and for also taking care of me,” he explained. Yulo expressed his desire to meet with the university president and showcase the medals he earned, a gesture of gratitude for the institution’s support.

Yulo’s return to Japan also includes a personal indulgence. “I miss ramen,” he shared with a smile. “I’ll be eating ramen.” This simple pleasure is part of what makes his connection to Japan so special, alongside the professional achievements he has earned.

Another significant aspect of his visit may involve reconnecting with his longtime coach, Munehiro Kugimiya, affectionately known as “coach Mune.” The two parted ways in 2023 after a decade of fruitful collaboration, which included historic wins at the world championships and the Olympics. Mune expressed hope that Yulo would carry out a “greeting tour” with his gold medals to honor those who supported him along the way.

“When the Tokyo Olympics was over, Carlos and I vowed together that if we won gold in Paris, we would bring our gold medals to greet all those who have helped us,” Mune told Rappler in August. While Yulo did not confirm whether he would meet his former coach during his trip, he acknowledged the profound influence Mune has had on his life and career.

“I learned work dedication from him and he taught me to just try and try — huwag matakot, huwag sumuko sa kung anong gusto mong abutin sa buhay,” Yulo said. (Do not be afraid, do not give up on what you want to achieve in life.)

The 24-year-old gymnast emphasized the importance of dedication, stating, “Kapag sinipagan mo, tiyanaga mo, binigyan mo ng oras, binigyan mo ng dedication mo, binigay mo puso mo, kahit hindi mo maabot pangarap mo sa buhay, may mas maaabot na mas mataas doon, which is mas makilala mo sarili mo sa journey.” (When you work hard, persevere, give your time, dedication, and heart, even if you don’t reach your dreams, you can achieve something higher, which is to know yourself better in the journey.)