EJ Obiena optimistic amid 'physical problems' ahead of Paris Olympics

Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena is keeping his head held high as he opened up about his battle with 'physical problems' days before he takes the stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In a social media post on Saturday, the athletics star shared he has been facing these problems since April despite what he said was his best efforts at "conditioning, fitness and discipline".

He added that he had undergone a series of medical procedures in bid to give it his best at his second straight Summer Games appearance.

"I know and fully understand this can happen to athletes training at such intensity and no complaints," he said in a lengthy post.

"Am I feeling confident with my preparation? Well, definitely not as much as I would like!! Am I doing the best I can each day? Yes and most definitely yes!!! Not what I wanted but we’re still standing and I still have a few more days to prepare and sharpen."

The 28-year-old Obiena is currently the second best pole vaulter in the world behind world record holder and top athlete Mondo Duplantis of Sweden. 

The homegrown Filipino ace is looking to reach the podium in Paris, and improve his 11th place finish during his Tokyo Olympics run. 

Despite these health problems, Obiena vows to make the most of his Paris campaign. 

"I know these things happen. All athletes at an Olympic level deal with such adversities. I know not everything is in my control. I am an optimist by-nature," he said.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News