In Eugene, the Swede (23 years old) broke the pole vault world record for the seventh time in his career (the second time outdoors, 14 months after having achieved this feat in the same place during the 2022 World Cup) and this, from the first attempt. His impressive competition consisted of four jumps: 5.62 m, 5.82 m, 6.02 m and then 6.23 m. Great art!
Duplantis, THE star of the Van Damme Memorial: “Does pole vault seem easy to me? That’s the biggest compliment”
“It was a shorter competition and, therefore, more fun for me,” explains the current Olympic champion. It’s easier to get to the top of the world record fresh. The format of this Diamond League final is ideal for me. I made very good jumps in this stadium which works well for me. I’m at two world records in Hayward. It’s a combination of several factors, but this place has absolutely everything: the history, the modern touch, the track is really fast, the crowd and energy are fantastic. “All this is what I need to be able to beat the world record.”
As with almost all of his outings, the man nicknamed Mondo was of course asked about his absolute potential.
“My limit is even higher,” he replies. I hope I can continue jumping well and jump higher than I did this Sunday, but for now I really don’t think about anything other than enjoying this moment and enjoying what I just did.”
And repeat how much he appreciates being able to make a living from his passion. “I really love pole vaulting and have loved it since I was little. If I can take the discipline to another level and if I can attract as many eyes as possible by jumping high and doing interesting things, then I will have done my part of the job. “I’m happy to be where I am now and I’m going to continue to build on that.”
