Fil-Am Olympian Emma Malabuyo shines on balance beam for UCLA Bruins
Filipino American Olympian Emma Malabuyo delivers a stellar performance for the UCLA Bruins, claiming the balance beam title with a meet-winning average score of 9.925. Photo from emma_malabuyo/Instagram
She’s so back in the gymnastics arena and she delivered it so well.
Filipino American Olympian Emma Malabuyo delivered a stellar performance for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins, claiming the balance beam title with a meet-winning average score of 9.925.
Her impressive showing came as the Bruins faced off against the Michigan State Spartans in a Big Ten Conference women’s gymnastics showdown.
Malabuyo played a key role in this surge, earning a 9.95 score in her final rotation on the floor.
Her performance was complemented by perfect 10.0s from Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles and teammate Chae Campbell, sealing an unforgettable finish for UCLA.
Posting a video of Malabuyo’s performance, B1G Gymnastics wrote, “Practice makes perfect for [Emma Malabuyo] & [UCLA Gymnastics] on beam.” In another video post was their reactions with a caption, “Nothing shakes this [UCLA Gymnastics] anchor.”
One user replied, “I know they’re scoring tighter this year, but this was damn near flawless. Not a wobble or form deduction in sight — Emma has such stunning artistry! Surprised this didn’t go 9.95 or higher!!”
With her latest feat, Malabuyo has climbed to No. 4 in the balance beam rankings in the 2025 US National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season.
Her success follows an already memorable journey, having competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics as part of a historic team of three Filipino American gymnasts—the first to represent the Philippines in women’s artistic gymnastics in 60 years.
Malabuyo’s continued excellence on the mat reflects her dedication and talent, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
With her growing list of accolades, she remains a key figure to watch in the NCAA gymnastics circuit and even in the next Olympics in Los Angeles.
