Carlos Yulo’s former Japan coach proudly watches from the sidelines at the Paris Olympics

Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya said he was the “best witness” of Carlos Yulo’s efforts, adding that he was proud to see his former pupil win Olympic gold in Paris

Tokyo, Japan – Even though Parting ways Alongside one of his best students, Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya is proud to see his work with the gymnastics team reach its peak Carlos Yulo – Win an Olympic medal.

His former Filipino protégé even exceeded expectations, winning two Olympic gold medals. Floor Exercise and Vault At the Paris Olympics.

Kugimiya, who was part of the Japanese delegation, watched Yolo compete live at the Paris Olympics and was delighted to see Yolo’s gold-medal winning performance and the exciting moments at the medal ceremony.

Unfortunately, Kugimiya said he never had the chance to speak to Yuro, who was a promising 13-year-old prodigy when they first met.

“I want to say ‘Congratulations. You did a great job,'” Kugimiya told Rappler in a phone interview.

Kugimiya admitted that he was very excited when he saw Yuro take the podium.

Although they broke up last year, Yulo told Rappler in May last year no offence He will always be grateful to Kugimiya because he made him a Floor exercise world champion (2019) and Vault (2021).

Kugimiya recalled that he “had a tough time” training the young player, who left his family in Manila as a teenager in 2016 to train in Japan on a scholarship program.

“Carlos was only 16 when we started training in Japan. At that time, there were few supporters and we had to pay for the expenses ourselves,” said Kugimiya.

The adjustment was difficult for the then-promising Filipino teenager.

“I have high hopes for Carlos. I think if gymnastics can break the heart of a talented Carlos, then there is no need for him to stay in gymnastics,” shared Kugimiya.

The Japanese instructor recalled that there was a time when Yulo almost gave up training in Japan, troubled by various barriers such as language and culture.

“I remember giving Carlos a ticket to return to the Philippines (when we were at a ramen shop) when he was 16,” he said.

“I sometimes put him through tough training. But Carlos has always aimed for the Olympic gold medal and he has always been willing to accept any hard training. I am the best witness of Carlos’ efforts.”

Yulo persevered, training in Japan for nearly a decade until 2023. During that time, they collected an impressive medal haul, most notably his historic two world championships.

Personal differences led to their breakup, with Yulo telling Rappler in May: “I felt like our relationship wasn’t working for me anymore.”

Filipino Aldrin Castañeda has since taken over as Yolo’s coach.

But Kugimiya hopes Yulo will remember the agreement they reached for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Kugimiya said: “After the Tokyo Olympics, Carlos and I swore together that if we win the gold medal in Paris, we will definitely bring the gold medal to greet all those who have helped us.”

“He doesn’t have to be with me, but I want him to go on this welcome tour with two gold medals.”

Kugimiya listed many individuals and organizations that provided them with help, including Teikyo High School, Oizumi Swallows Sports Club, Tsukahara Gymnastics Center, Tokushukai Gymnastics Club, Japan Olympic Committee, Japan Gymnastics Association, Teikyo University and the Japanese Embassy.

The Japanese also hopes that his children will be able to give back to the Philippines as Yolo became one of the greatest athletes in Philippine sports history.

“There are many athletes in the Philippines who have potential but are unable to train hard or are not sent to compete,” Kujimiya said.

“I hope Carlos grows up to be a man of character, supports future Filipino children and builds an equal sports society.” – Rappler.com