Mondo Duplantis Makes History in Stockholm

Armand Duplantis, affectionately known as 'Mondo', has once again etched his name into the annals of athletics history by breaking the men's pole vault world record for the 12th time. At the Diamond League meeting in Stockholm, the 25-year-old soared over a height of 6.28 meters, setting a new world best. This achievement was particularly poignant for Duplantis, as it marked his first world record in Sweden, the homeland of his mother.

A Moment of Triumph

Duplantis had already secured victory in the event before attempting the record-breaking height. With a first-attempt clearance, he celebrated with friends and family, basking in the adulation of the home crowd. 'I feel full to the brim right now,' said the double Olympic champion, reflecting on his monumental achievement.

A Journey to Greatness

Duplantis' journey to this moment began years ago. 'The first time I jumped in this stadium when I was 11 years old, it was rainy, cold and I jumped right under four meters,' he recalled. 'It was quite high for how young I was.' Now, his name will be etched alongside other world record holders in the stadium, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Other Highlights from the Stockholm Diamond League

Andreas Almgren Sets European Record

On the same memorable evening, Andreas Almgren set a European record in the men's 5,000 meters, further cementing Stockholm's status as a hub of athletic excellence.

Georgia Hunter-Bell's Sensational Win

British athlete Georgia Hunter-Bell delivered a stunning performance in the women's 800 meters. Despite being last with 200 meters to go, she surged past her competitors, including world champion Mary Moraa, to claim victory in 1:57.66. 'I ran that all wrong, making some bad decisions but the whole time I felt good so I knew I had something left,' Hunter-Bell remarked.

British Success Across the Board

Other British athletes also shone brightly. Amber Anning finished third in the women's 400 meters with a season's best of 50.17 seconds, while Dina Asher-Smith clocked 10.93 seconds to secure second place in the women's 100 meters. Innes Fitzgerald and Hannah Nuttall both smashed their personal bests in the women's 3,000 meters, finishing third and fourth respectively.

International Stars Shine

The event also saw remarkable performances from international stars. Femke Bol of the Netherlands broke her own meeting record in the women's 400 meters hurdles, while Kenya's Emmanuel Wanyonyi ran the fastest men's 800 meters time of the year. Rai Benjamin of the United States triumphed in the men's 400 meters hurdles, outpacing Brazil's Alison dos Santos and Norway's Karsten Warholm.

Conclusion

The Stockholm Diamond League was a night to remember, filled with record-breaking performances and unforgettable moments. Mondo Duplantis' latest achievement stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of athletics, inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.