‘Not an Easy Decision’ - Filipino pole vault icon EJ Obiena on committing to compete in the 2028 Olympic Games
Filipino pole vault sensation EJ Obiena, regarded as one of the Philippines’ brightest hopes in international athletics, faced immense pressure and expectations at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. Ranked second in the world, Obiena entered the competition with hopes of securing the Philippines’ first Olympic medal in athletics since 1936. However, despite his impressive credentials and strong showing throughout the year, Obiena narrowly missed out on a podium finish, leaving both his fans and himself with mixed emotions.
Obiena’s journey to the 2024 Olympics was filled with optimism and anticipation. As one of the top contenders in men’s pole vault, the 28-year-old athlete was expected to challenge for a medal. However, the competition at the Stade de France proved to be as fierce as anticipated. Obiena successfully cleared 5.75 meters and 5.85 meters, putting him in contention with the world’s best. But when the bar was raised to 5.95 meters, Obiena faltered, missing all three of his attempts and ultimately finishing fourth in the event.
This result, while disappointing by the high standards he and his supporters had set, marked a significant improvement from his 11th-place finish at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Despite not securing a medal, Obiena’s fourth-place finish is a testament to his progress and resilience as an athlete. It also underscored the fine margins that separate the winners from the rest in elite sports.
Following his performance in Paris, questions quickly arose about Obiena’s future, particularly whether he would aim for redemption at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Competing in back-to-back Olympic Games is a formidable challenge, and for an athlete like Obiena, who would be 32 years old in 2028, the decision to commit to another four-year cycle is not one to be taken lightly.
In a candid media interaction, Obiena expressed the complexity of the decision he faces. "If I were to do that, I need to be able to look my parents in the eye that I’m probably not going to see them again for the next four years, at least. Maybe a month a year at best," Obiena shared. His words highlight the personal sacrifices required to compete at the highest level in sports. For Obiena, committing to another Olympic cycle means dedicating every waking moment to training, competition, and recovery—leaving little time for anything else, including family.
EJ Obiena regarding LA 2028 Olympics:
— Aileen 🇵🇭 (@missmafiaxx) August 7, 2024
“I’m taking it one day at time— the reason why I can’t give you guys the answer you want to have is just that I don’t wanna lie… I don’t want to be in LA, just to be in LA. If I’m gonna do that, I’m gonna all out & win the freaking thing” pic.twitter.com/6rFKUFJJtk
Obiena’s hesitation is understandable. The life of an elite athlete is demanding, often requiring a singular focus that can take a toll both physically and emotionally. For Obiena, who has already dedicated much of his life to pole vaulting, the prospect of committing to another four years of the same intense routine is daunting. "It’s going to be another four painstaking years that I need to focus on everything and live this life. It takes a little bit of thinking to understand that. I need to give myself time. It’s a decision that’s pretty big," he said, acknowledging the magnitude of the choice before him.
Obiena’s journey to the 2024 Olympics was far from smooth. In the months leading up to the Games, he faced significant challenges, including physical problems that threatened to derail his preparations. Obiena confirmed that he had undergone medical procedures to address these issues, and while he managed to compete, it was clear that he was not at his physical peak.
"It’s not that I’m saying that LA is out of the picture. It’s not an easy decision to make. I think I need that to process it and hopefully be able to fully commit and say with all my gut and all my being, ‘I’m going to be there and represent the Philippines to the best of my ability. If not, then not at all. That’s not how I do things,’" Obiena explained.
This determination to give his all or nothing is a hallmark of Obiena’s approach to his sport. But it also underscores the seriousness with which he is considering his future. Competing at the Olympics is not just about showing up; for Obiena, it’s about being in the best possible condition, both physically and mentally, to compete for a medal.
As Obiena weighs his options, his immediate focus remains on addressing his ongoing back problem. This injury, which has been a persistent issue, needs to be fully resolved before he can commit to any long-term plans. In the meantime, Obiena aims to compete in a few more events this season, including select Diamond League legs, as he seeks to maintain his world No. 2 ranking.
"My goal right now is to hopefully hold my world ranking. There’s a few competitions still lined up for me this season. We will deliberate, regroup, and try to understand the possibilities of all this," Obiena concluded.
For fans of Filipino sports, the prospect of seeing Obiena compete again on the Olympic stage is tantalizing. His talent, combined with his determination, makes him a strong contender for future success. However, as Obiena has made clear, the decision to continue is not one he will make lightly.
Obiena’s quest for an Olympic medal carries with it the weight of history. The Philippines has a rich Olympic tradition, but success in athletics has been elusive. The last Filipino athlete to win a medal in track and field was Miguel White, who secured a bronze in the 400m hurdles at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Obiena came agonizingly close to ending that long drought in Paris, and the thought of making history could be a powerful motivator as he contemplates his future.
At 32, Obiena would still be in his prime as a pole vaulter. Many athletes in the sport have found success well into their 30s, suggesting that age may not be a barrier for him. However, the cumulative toll of years of training and competition is something Obiena must carefully consider.
Regardless of what Obiena decides, he has already cemented his place as one of the Philippines’ greatest athletes. His achievements have inspired a new generation of Filipino athletes and brought attention to the sport of pole vaulting in a country where it is not traditionally a major focus. The support of his nation will undoubtedly play a role in his decision, as will the desire to continue representing the Philippines on the world stage.
As EJ Obiena navigates the next phase of his career, the decision to compete in the 2028 Olympic Games will be one of the most important of his life. It is a decision that will require careful consideration, not just of his physical capabilities, but of the personal sacrifices he will need to make. For now, Obiena is focused on healing, competing, and maintaining his standing among the world’s best pole vaulters. Whether he ultimately decides to pursue Olympic glory in Los Angeles or not, his legacy as a Filipino sports icon is already secure.
For the latest updates on EJ Obiena’s journey and other sports news, visit OKBET, Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports betting platform.
