ROME — Sanghyeok Woo soared to victory in the men’s high jump at the Rome Diamond League, clearing a season-best 2.32 meters to outjump a strong field that included Doroshchuk Oleh and Romaine Beckford.
Woo started the competition confidently, clearing the opening heights with apparent ease. Meanwhile, as the bar rose, he maintained composure and rhythm, executing each jump with precision. His winning clearance of 2.32 meters drew applause from the crowd and marked a personal best for the event.
On the other hand, Doroshchuk Oleh pushed Sanghyeok Woo throughout the competition. However, he managed to clear 2.30 meters in a determined effort to claim the top spot.
However, it is Oleh’s consistent performance that kept the pressure on Sanghyeok Woo, turning the contest into a gripping duel. Meanwhile, Jamaican Romaine Beckford impressed with a clearance of 2.26 meters, demonstrating his potential to challenge the sport’s elite soon.
The men’s high jump event at the Rome Diamond League highlighted the depth of talent in the field and underscored Woo’s continued rise on the international stage. His victory adds to an already impressive resume and signals his readiness to compete at the highest level.
Who is Sanghyeok Woo?
Sanghyeok Woo, born on April 23, 1996, in Daejeon, South Korea, has established himself as one of the world’s leading high jumpers. He combines exceptional athleticism with precise technique to consistently deliver top performances.
Woo represented South Korea at the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he achieved a career-best fourth place by clearing 2.35 meters. Nicknamed the “Smile Jumper” for his cheerful demeanour, he has claimed multiple major titles, including gold at the 2022 and 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships.
Woo set Korean national records with personal bests of 2.35 meters outdoors and 2.36 meters indoors. He rose through the ranks after winning the World Youth Championships in 2013 and earning medals at junior and senior levels across Asia and the world.
In 2023, he made history by winning the Diamond League final in Eugene, Oregon, clearing 2.35 meters—the first Korean to do so.
After finishing seventh at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Sanghyeok Woo refocused his training in South Korea. This adjustment improved his jump power and reduced physical strain, helping him reclaim the world indoor title in Nanjing in 2025 and win the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, where he cleared 2.29 meters despite challenging weather.
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In addition, Sanghyeok Woo trains under coach Kim Do-kyun and recently signed with PUMA, joining a roster of elite athletes. As he continues to compete internationally, Woo aims to challenge for more global titles and elevate South Korea’s presence in track and field. Sanghyeok Woo secured a triumphant win in the Men’s High Jump event at the Rome Diamond League. Under the guidance of coach Kim Do-kyun, Woo’s recent affiliation with PUMA underscores his growing stature among top-tier athletes. With a focus on pursuing further international victories, Sanghyeok Woo is dedicated to enhancing South Korea’s standing in the realm of track and field.
Moreover, both Oleh and Beckford showed resilience and technical skill, promising more intense battles in upcoming meets. As the Diamond League season progresses, fans can expect thrilling showdowns among these top high jumpers.
