Filipino Olympian and pole vaulter EJ Obiena has dropped to the third spot in the latest world rankings released by World Athletics on August 13.
Performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics
This update comes shortly after the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Obiena finished fourth in the pole vault finals. Obiena, who became the world No. 2 in July 2023, saw his ranking affected by the recent competition outcomes.
Current Rankings
- 1st: Mondo Duplantis (Sweden) – Retained top position
- 2nd: Sam Kendricks (USA) – Moved to second place
- 3rd: EJ Obiena (Philippines) – Slipped to third place
- 4th: Emmanouil Karalis (Greece) – Moved from eighth to fourth, following his bronze medal win in Paris
Obiena’s Determination
Despite the slip in rankings, Obiena remains determined. He previously expressed his desire to maintain his high world ranking and has stated that he is “back in the game” and ready to “attack the rest of the season.”
Recent Activities
Obiena recently visited the Philippines, participating in various events:
- A ceremony at Malacañan Palace honoring Olympians
- A homecoming at his alma mater, Chiang Kai Shek College
- A visit to Manila City Hall, where he received a P500,000 cash incentive
Upcoming Events
Obiena is also actively involved in promoting the sport in the Philippines. He is helping to organize the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge, set to take place on September 20, which will bring international pole vaulters to the country.