Pole vault phenomenon Armand “Mondo” Duplantis once again reminded the athletics world why he remains the man to beat, securing a decisive victory at the Xiamen Diamond League on Saturday, 26 April.
But beyond the medals and world records, Duplantis says his mission goes deeper, it’s about the relentless pursuit of personal excellence.
“I understand pole vaulting and I know that I’m not going to break the world record every time I compete. But I know the times when I have a good chance,” Duplantis said in a pre race interview.
“For me, it’s just a journey. It’s just trying to improve myself. I like records. But I think that I’m more obsessed with just being the best version of myself.”
That philosophy was on full display in Xiamen, where the 25-year-old Swede opened his outdoor season by clearing 5.92m to claim the top podium spot.
Fresh off his third consecutive world indoor title in Nanjing last month, Duplantis carried his imperious form into a stadium where history already knows his name. It was here in 2024 that he shattered the world record with a leap of 6.24m.
The reigning Olympic and world champion took a measured approach on Saturday, entering the competition at 5.62m and clearing it with ease. He sailed over subsequent heights of 5.82m and 5.92m before narrowly missing three attempts at 6.01m.
Greek Olympic bronze medallist Emmanouil Karalis offered spirited competition, matching Duplantis at 5.82m before an injury forced his withdrawal during his third attempt at 5.92m. Dutch vaulter Menno Vloon secured third place after a tenacious clearance at 5.82m.
With two Olympic gold medals, 11 world records, and a winning streak now at 28 consecutive victories since July 2023, the Swedish star continues to redefine what’s possible in the sport.
Speaking after the event, Duplantis emphasized the importance of pacing his season and using early competitions to fine-tune his form.
“It wasn’t the easiest day out there. I think probably for most of the guys. We had a little trouble with the wind at times, and a lot of people weren’t feeling quite sharp in their legs,” he admitted.
“I feel like I could have given a little bit more, but a win’s a win.”
“There’s some work to do for sure. I don’t want to be jumping 5.90m in Tokyo. But we have time. Even now, I know I can jump higher than I did today,” he added.
The reigning World Sportsman of the Year, a title he secured at the Laureus Awards earlier this month, admits the off-track recognition brings its own unique schedule challenges.
“Training’s been good. I’ve had a few trips, things like the Laureus Awards that I couldn’t miss. Sometimes things get in the way of training, but overall they’re worth it. Maybe not the perfect timing for this meet, but it’s still sick,” Duplantis said with a grin.
He remains focused on improving his training.
“It’s mostly physical things, working on the run-up, building new speed and power. It’s a balance, juggling rhythm and consistency on the runway. Just natural kinks to work out as the season progresses.”
With Tokyo 2025 and the 2026 European Championships ahead, Duplantis remains unrivaled, though his toughest rival is himself.
“I’m not going to get tired of hearing [World Sportsman of the Year], probably not. It hasn’t quite sunk in yet, but I know it’s one of the biggest accolades I’ll ever receive. I have to be thankful for it,” he concluded.