Two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo paid tribute to those who supported his journey to the top of the podium after being recognized as the 2024 Athlete of the Year by the Philippine Sportswriters Association on Monday night.
Yulo was the highlight of Philippine sports in the past year, with his two victories in the Paris Olympics an unprecedented feat for a Filipino athlete.
"Gusto ko lang pong magpasalamat sa Panginoon sa lahat ng blessings and challenges na binigay niya sa buhay ko. Lahat ng paghihirap ko, lahat ng pagod, sobrang worth it talaga," said Yulo after receiving his award at the Manila Hotel.
He acknowledged the role that Philippine sports officials -- notably Cynthia Carrion of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines -- has played in his rise, and gave special mention to his coach, Aldrin Castañeda.
"Salamat sa paghubog, sa disiplina, sa pagsuporta sa mga gusto ko, sa pagsuporta sa pagiging atleta ko," said Yulo.
He closed his brief speech by thanking those who prayed for the success of Filipino athletes in Paris -- and asking for their support once more as they embark on another Olympic cycle.
"Salamat po ulit sa mga nagdasal, sa mga nagpuyat. Lahat po 'yun worth it, thank you so much. Sama-sama po niyo kaming ipagdasal ulit sa darating na 2028 LA Olympics," he said.
"Ako po si Carlos Yulo, ang panalong 'to ay panalo nating lahat."
READ: Carlos Yulo, other Filipino sports royalty celebrated in 2024 PSA Awards Night