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When Armand Duplantis enters a tournament, the winner is already decided. The other athletes watch in joy, clap for him after competing for the second and third positions. In the end, the only question everyone asks is 'Will he break the world record again?' At the Tokyo World Athletics Championships 2025 on September 15, the story was no different. The crowd rallied behind one of the greatest athletes of all time. The 25-year-old pole vaulter did not disappoint and broke the world record for the 14th time. He cleared 6.30 metres, bringing his father, Greg Duplantis, on the verge of tears.
“This exceeded my wildest dreams and expectations,” said Duplantis. “I think the difference maker was being able to have the spectators and have the full energy of the crowd... It was one of the best stadiums and atmospheres and experiences that I've ever had.”
Duplantis created the world record in his third and final attempt of the event. Even though the men's pole vault event was delayed, there were 53,000 people waiting for 'Mondo' magic in Tokyo.
However, the last time Duplantis was in Tokyo, the atmosphere was from electrifying due to Covid-19. He won the gold medal but did not enjoy it.
“To be able to enjoy this world record with them and give them that is super special,” Duplantis said.
“Especially considering the last time I was in this stadium, we didn't have any spectators. It was spooky and eerie and super weird, and not very fun, honestly.”
Windfall on Duplantis
The Louisiana-born Swedish pole vaulter won $70,000 for winning the World Championships. In addition, he got $100,000 for breaking the world record, a bonus that record-breakers receive at World Championships. But, money is not something that drives the once in a generation athlete.
“It's doing what I know I'm capable of,” Duplantis said. “Motivation-wise, it's not that much of a problem. I know the level I can compete at, and I kind of demand that out of myself.”
Who won the silver and bronze medal?
The second spot was occupied by Greece's Emmanouil Karalis who cleared the 6 metre mark for silver medal. He was followed by Australia's Kurits Marschall with a 5.95 metre jump for bronze medal.
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