Mondo Duplantis kicked off the 2024 Wanda Diamond League season with a remarkable performance in Xiamen on Saturday. The 24-year-old athlete from Sweden set a new world pole vault record of 6.24m, surpassing his previous record set in Eugene last September.
Duplantis cleared the bar at the first attempt and expressed his excitement about competing in China for the first time. He recently secured his world indoor title in Glasgow with a 6.10m jump.
With more than three months to go before he defends his Olympic title in Paris, Duplantis has already achieved an impressive start to the outdoor season. This marks the second time he has opened his season with a six-meter jump, the first being a 6.02m success in Doha in 2022.
This latest record-breaking performance is the eighth of Duplantis’ career so far. His first world record of 6.17m was set in Torun in 2020. The new record of 6.24m is subject to the usual ratification procedure, ensuring its official recognition.
In addition to his outstanding performance, Duplantis also expressed his gratitude towards the organizers and fans for their support during this event.
“It was an amazing experience to compete here,” said Duplantis after clearing the bar at six meters.
“The atmosphere was incredible, and I couldn’t have done it without all your support.”
Duplantis’s success at Xiamen has cemented him as one of the top pole vaulters in the world today.
As he continues to push himself and break records, it will be exciting to see what he achieves next on and off the track.