Filipino Pole Vaulter Ernest John Obiena took to social media his gratitude towards every individual who followed, supported, and believed in him during his campaign in the 2024 Paris Olympics where he finished in fourth place.
The PH bet apologized after failing to bring home a medal for the Philippines in the men's pole vault event at the Olympics.
"4th place is painful to say the least; and in sports with three podium places, perhaps 4th is the harshest place to be," Obiena said in an emotional Facebook post on Tuesday.
"I am heartbroken that a single failure cost me and cost a nation I so deeply love—the podium," he added.
Obiena mentioned that the world of competitive sports can be exhilarating and painful at times. He has experienced both and, unfortunately, today he finds himself on the other side of it.
However, he is proud of what he was able to accomplish for this Olympics despite all the challenges faced throughout the year, but it still pains him to come so close to winning an Olympic medal.
"As anyone can imagine the reality is still sinking in and I am processing the outcome," Obiena said.
Obiena recognized the historic win of Carlos Yulo who clinched two gold medals in two men's artistic gymnastic events in the Paris Olympics. He regret not being able to join Yulo on the podium but is determined to return.
"I have been knocked down. But I will get back up," He firmly stated ending the Facebook post.
Although World No. 2 pole vaulter EJ Obiena fell short to clear 5.95 meters at the competition, the athlete's performance improved. From placing 11th and clearing 5.70m in the Tokyo Olympics 2020, he was able to rank 4th and clear 5.90m in this year's summer Olympics.