Paris — Nicola Olyslagers and Yaroslava Mahuchikh will renew their rivalry in the women’s high jump at the Wanda Diamond League Meeting de Paris on June 20.
Nicola Olyslagers, a two-time world indoor champion and silver medalist at Paris 2024 and Tokyo 2021, has started the 2025 season strongly. She won the Doha Diamond League with a clearance of 1.98 meters and has consistently cleared heights above 1.95 meters this year.
However, history has shown that Nicola Olyslagers thrives in Paris, having won at Charléty stadium in 2021 and 2023, and she told reporters, “I feel confident competing here. The crowd gives me energy.”
On the other hand, Yaroslava Mahuchikh, a multiple Diamond League winner and world indoor champion, brings explosive power and technical precision. She edged Nicola Olyslagers at the 2024 World Championships by clearing 2.00 meters to Olyslagers’ 1.98.
Yaroslava Mahuchikh
In addition, Yaroslava Mahuchikh opened her 2025 campaign with a strong 1.99-meter clearance in Rome and has consistently challenged the world’s best.
Meanwhile, the field includes other top jumpers like Eleanor Patterson and Yaroslava’s compatriot, who have cleared 1.95 meters or more this season, adding pressure to the favourites.
Mahuchikh said, “I’m focused on pushing my limits and enjoying the competition. Nicola is a great rival who makes me better.” Olyslagers added, “We push each other to new heights. It’s always a battle, and I’m ready.”
Who is Nicola Olyslagers?
Nicola Olyslagers is an Australian high jumper who has risen to the top of her sport through steady progress and determination. Born on December 28, 1996, in New South Wales, she started athletics at age seven and quickly found a passion for the high jump.
Moreover, Nicola became the first Australian woman to clear 2 meters, setting a national record of 2.02 meters at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she won silver.
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She repeated that success with another silver at Paris 2024 and claimed the 2024 World Indoor Championship title.
Spectators at Stade de France can expect a thrilling contest where every centimetre counts. This high jump duel promises to be one of the night’s most captivating events, showcasing grace, power, and precision.