STOCKHOLM — At a thrilling Diamond League event held at the iconic Olympic Stadium in Sweden’s capital, Mondo Duplantis set a new milestone in the pole vault by elevating the world record to an astounding 6.28 meters on Sunday. The renowned Olympic and world champion successfully surpassed his previous world record, adding an extra centimeter to the mark he established in France earlier this year in February.
This achievement marks the 12th time Duplantis has shattered the pole vault world record, with this being the first time he accomplished the feat in front of a home crowd. Prior to the competition in Stockholm, Duplantis expressed that setting a world record on home soil was among his cherished aspirations.
Reflecting on his remarkable accomplishment, Duplantis said, “It’s a magical feeling. I wanted it so bad,” he added. “I kept saying it was the only thing I was missing. Now, I’m done. I can just chill.” Born in Louisiana, Duplantis competes in international athletics for Sweden, honoring his mother’s Swedish heritage.
During the event, after effortlessly scaling 6.00 meters, Duplantis opted to bypass his own meet record of 6.16 meters, aiming directly for a new world record. His triumphant moment was celebrated with fervor as he tore off his shirt and fervently pumped his fist, fueling the excitement of the enthusiastic spectators gathered in the packed stadium.