EJ Obiena, the Philippines’ premier pole vaulter, has announced an early end to his 2024 season due to a back injury. The decision means he will miss the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge on September 20 in Makati, which his team is set to host.
Obiena revealed his situation through a social media post on Wednesday, disclosing that the injury was identified during the Silesia leg of the Diamond League, where he placed fifth. Initially, he had planned to compete in three more events: ISTAF Berlin, Zurich Diamond League, and the Diamond League Final. However, he has opted to withdraw to focus on his recovery.
“During the Silesia Diamond League this past weekend, the same back pain that has bothered me all season flared up. Due to the continual spasms, I couldn’t finish my last few attempts,” Obiena shared. After seeking medical advice in Italy, an MRI suggested a stress fracture, which was later confirmed by a CAT scan as a fractured L5 vertebra.
The 28-year-old athlete has been advised a minimum of four weeks of rest and is aiming for a strong comeback in 2025, including a bid for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. “Hopefully, now that I’ve identified the source of my back problems this year, with the required 4-weeks off to heal, I’m hoping to return pain-free and ready for the 2025 indoor season!” Obiena said.
Obiena has previously dealt with a similar back injury before the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he narrowly missed a podium finish, landing fourth. Determined to prioritize his long-term health and performance, he stated, “The best thing to do right now, with ensuring my best future, is to rest and recuperate and come back even stronger.”