Shelby McEwen produced a standout performance at the ongoing Wanda Diamond League in Doha, winning the men’s high jump with a best clearance of 2.26 meters.
The American upstaged a world-class field that included Olympic champion Mutaz Essa Barshim, competing on home soil, and world indoor champion Hamish Kerr.
While McEwen soared over 2.26m, Barshim could only manage 2.24m, and Kerr struggled to find rhythm on the night. McEwen’s early clearance proved enough to clinch the win, even after three missed attempts at 2.30m.
The victory was sealed in spectacular fashion as McEwen celebrated with a perfectly executed backflip on the landing mat, drawing loud cheers from the Doha crowd.
More to follow