Obiena says his 2025 season is disappointing

Disappointing Season EJ Obiena Reflects on 2025 Performance

As the curtain closes on the 2025 season, Filipino pole vaulter Ernest John EJ Obiena has spoken candidly about his underwhelming performance. In a rare social media post, Obiena opened up about his struggles this year, revealing that he had high expectations before the season began.

I had set my sights high, but unfortunately, it was a frustrating year, Obiena said. I struggled to find my rhythm and consistency eluded me. It's been a disappointing season.

While there were some bright spots throughout the year, including victories at the Patafa Pole Vault Challenge in May and a silver medal finish at the Meeting Madrid in July, Obiena's campaign has been marred by inconsistency and underperformance.

As of Thursday, Obiena is ranked 11th in the World Athletics pole vault rankings, a significant drop from his peak position of No. 2 last year behind Olympic champion and world record holder Armand Duplantis.

Obiena's struggles were evident at several key events this season. In June, he failed to clear any height at the Bislett Games in Norway, finishing seventh with a jump of 5.70 meters. He also struggled at the BAUHAUS-Galan in Sweden and the Herculis tournament in Monaco, where he cleared 5.72 meters and 5.66 meters, respectively.

The low point came at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, where Obiena could only manage a jump of 5.55 meters and failed to make the finals.

However, in his most recent outing at the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge on Sunday, Obiena rediscovered his form, winning the event with a season-best clearance of 5.80 meters.

Despite his disappointment, Obiena expressed pride in the organization of the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge and gratitude for his victory.

I was worried coming into this closing event, but I'm thrilled to have won and set a new season's best, Obiena said. I'm proud of the organizers – they did an incredible job. This event truly showcased the Philippines' capabilities, and I'm honored to have been a part of it.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Obiena is optimistic about his chances of rebounding from a disappointing year.

This win has given me a tremendous sense of confidence and gratitude, he said. I believe this sets me up well for a successful 2026 season.

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