EJ Obiena announces early end of 2024 season due to spine fracture

Metro Manila, Philippines — Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena will be closing early his 2024 season after he was diagnosed with a spine fracture.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Aug. 28, Obiena said he encountered back pain during the Silesia Diamond League in Poland on Aug. 25. — a condition he said has “bothered” him throughout the season.

“Due to the continual spasms, I couldn’t finish my last few attempts,” the athlete wrote.

“I immediately went to my doctor in Italy, and the MRI revealed what appeared to be a stress fracture in my spine. Unfortunately, a later CAT scan confirmed the diagnosis. I have a fractured L5 vertebra,” he said.

Obiena will miss three outdoor competitions in September: ISTAF Berlin, Zurich Diamond League, and Diamond League Final.

He will also pull out of the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge, which the pole vaulter announced as an official World Athletics Continental Tour event. Obiena has yet to disclose more details on this.

Obiena missed a podium finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics, which affected his world ranking. He is now the world No. 3 pole vaulter.

He vowed to get the points needed to retake the second spot.

“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.

He said resting and recuperating will be the “best thing to do right now” in securing his “best future,” as he expressed optimism for a strong comeback.

“I am going to honor my promise: ‘You’ll see more of me, and the Philippine flag will be raised on a global scale,’” Obiena said. “It will simply have to wait a bit longer!”

“Thank you for your support. I love you all and promise, ‘I’ll be back!’” he said.