Swedish sensation Mondo Duplantis dazzled the world once more, soaring to a breathtaking 6.25 meters to set his ninth world pole vault record, clinching the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Monday (5th).
At just 24 years old, Duplantis has become a dominant force in men’s pole vaulting, securing every global title since his first Olympic victory in Tokyo three years ago.
His latest triumph cements his place in history as only the second man to win two Olympic pole vault golds, a feat last accomplished by USA’s Bob Richards in 1952 and 1956.
Duplantis had already secured the gold at 6.00 meters, effortlessly clearing 6.10 meters on his first attempt, which surpassed the Olympic record by 7 centimetres.
Yet, the Swedish star wasn’t satisfied. He set his sights on 6.25 meters, aiming to break his own world record of 6.24 meters, achieved in Xiamen last April.
The first two attempts at this formidable height ended in failure. But in a display of sheer determination and skill, Duplantis sailed over the bar on his third and final attempt, etching his name into the annals of sporting history once again.
“It was an incredible moment,” Duplantis said. “I knew I had it in me, and to do it here, at the Olympics, is just beyond words.”
The silver medal went to USA’s Sam Kendricks, who cleared 5.95 meters, while Greece’s Emmanouil Karalis secured bronze with a 5.90-meter vault.
The event showcased an extraordinary level of competition, with 11 men clearing 5.70 meters, marking only the second time in Olympic history such a depth has been achieved.
Additionally, it mirrored the rare achievement of eight men clearing 5.80 meters or higher, and four men managing to vault 5.90 meters or more.
Duplantis’ remarkable career now includes an astounding 86 clearances of six meters or higher. His consistent performance and ability to break new ground have solidified his reputation as a pole-vaulting legend.
“Every competition is a new challenge,” he reflected. “But breaking the world record and winning gold at the Olympics is something truly special.”
As the world celebrates Duplantis’ latest feat, the usual ratification procedures will follow to confirm his record-breaking jump.
However, his place in history is already assured, and the sporting world eagerly anticipates what he will achieve next.
*Subject to the usual ratification procedure