As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena is at the peak of his career. This article will review Obiena’s competitive career achievements, analyze his current state, and explore his main rivals in the upcoming Olympics.
EJ Obiena’s Athletic Achievements
| Year | Competition | Result | Rank/Medal |
| 2019 | World Championships | 5.60m | 15th |
| 2019 | Southeast Asian Games | 5.45m | Gold |
| 2020 | Tokyo Olympics | 5.70m | 11th |
| 2021 | Southeast Asian Games | 5.46m | Gold |
| 2022 | World Championships | 5.94m | Bronze |
| 2023 | Southeast Asian Games | 5.65m | Gold |
| 2023 | Asian Championships | 5.91m | Gold |
| 2023 | World Championships | 6.00m | Silver |
| 2023 | Asian Games | 5.90m | Gold |
| 2024 | World Indoor Championships | 5.65m | 9th |
Obiena’s Olympic Prospects
EJ Obiena has made significant progress over the past four years. He broke the 6-meter barrier for the first time at the 2023 World Championships, achieving a personal best of 6.00m and winning silver, signifying his entry into the world’s elite. Although his performance at the 2024 World Indoor Championships was slightly below par, considering the unique nature of indoor competitions and early-season adjustments, this doesn’t necessarily impact his Olympic outlook.
Obiena’s excellent performances in regional events, especially his consecutive victories in the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Championships, demonstrate his consistency and dominance. This competitive experience and confidence will be crucial assets for him at the Olympics.
Top Competitors
Armand “Mondo” Duplantis (Sweden)
- World record holder (6.24m)
- 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist
- 2022, 2023 World Championships winner
- 2024 World Indoor Championships winner
Duplantis is undoubtedly the gold medal favorite for the 2024 Olympics. His world record is far beyond other athletes, his technique is comprehensive, and his explosive power is strong, making him the biggest challenge for Obiena to overcome.
Renaud Lavillenie (France)
- Former world record holder (6.16m)
- 2012 London Olympics gold medalist
- 2016 Rio Olympics silver medalist
Despite being 37 years old, Lavillenie‘s experience and performance in major competitions still make him a strong contender for a medal. His refined technique and excellent psychological quality may lead to an outstanding performance at the Paris Olympics on home soil.
Sam Kendricks (USA)
- Personal best of 6.06m
- 2017, 2019 World Championships winner
- 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medalist
Kendricks‘ consistency and experience in major competitions make him a strong contender for an Olympic medal. His excellent performances in significant events make him a competitor that Obiena needs to watch closely.
Conclusion for EJ Obiena
EJ Obiena faces fierce competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics, but his rapid progress and outstanding performances in recent years, especially his intense rivalry with Duplantis at the 2023 World Championships, show that he is now capable of competing with these top athletes. If Obiena can maintain good physical condition and perform at his best during the competition, he has a high possibility of winning a precious medal for the Philippines at the Paris Olympics, and may even challenge for gold.
However, facing strong opponents like Duplantis, Lavillenie, and Kendricks, Obiena needs to further improve his technical details and mental strength. The men’s pole vault competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics will undoubtedly be a spectacular top-level showdown, worthy of anticipation from all track and field enthusiasts.
Read More: Filipino Athletes Qualified for 2024 Paris Olympics
OKBet Sports News
