How High Can Showman Duplantis Soar?

The world of pole vaulting has seen remarkable transformations, particularly with the ascent of Swedish athlete Armand Duplantis, who has redefined the sport with his unprecedented performances. Duplantis, often referred to as 'Mondo', has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in pole vaulting, breaking the world record multiple times since 2020. His journey from a backyard athlete to a global sensation showcases not only his incredible talent but also the evolution of the sport itself.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Armand Duplantis has broken the men's pole vault world record multiple times since February 2020.
• He holds the record for the highest vault at 6.29m, achieved in August 2025.
• Duplantis's technique and training methods set him apart from his competitors.
• His success is attributed to a combination of natural talent, rigorous training, and mental strength.
• Duplantis has also gained popularity off the track, with a significant online following and music career.

The Dominance of Sergey Bubka and Renaud Lavillenie

For over three decades, the men's pole vault was largely characterised by the dominance of two athletes: Ukraine’s Sergey Bubka and France’s Renaud Lavillenie. Bubka set a remarkable standard in the sport, with 17 world records to his name, beginning with an impressive 5.85m in 1984. This record stood as a testament to his unmatched capabilities until Lavillenie surpassed it in 2014 with a record of 6.16m.

The Rise of Armand 'Mondo' Duplantis

February 2020 marked a significant shift in pole vaulting when Armand Duplantis, then just 20 years old, broke Lavillenie’s record by one centimetre, achieving a height of 6.17m. This moment was not a mere fluke; it was a precursor to a series of record-breaking performances that would follow almost weekly. Just days later, Duplantis cleared 6.18m, demonstrating his remarkable talent and potential.

Continuous Improvement

Duplantis has maintained a remarkable trajectory in his career, averaging three world record breaks each year. His most recent achievement, a clearance of 6.29m at the Hungarian Grand Prix in August 2025, marked the 13th time he has set a new world record. This performance solidified his position as the world leader in pole vaulting, leaving competitors like Emmanouil Karalis, who cleared 6.08m, far behind.

The Coaching Influence

Todd Lane, the track and field coach at Louisiana State University (LSU), played a pivotal role in Duplantis's development. Lane was able to observe Duplantis from a young age, having coached his brother Andreas, who also competed in pole vaulting at LSU. According to Lane, “Mondo always had insight into Andreas’ vaulting. He understands the event very, very well.” This understanding, paired with his backyard training sessions alongside his brothers and sister Johanna, laid the foundation for his future successes.

Family Influence and Early Training

The Duplantis household was steeped in athleticism, thanks to their father Greg Duplantis, a former elite pole vaulter, and their mother Helena, a former heptathlete. The siblings grew up with a pole vault pit in their backyard, where they would practice and refine their skills. Johanna Duplantis recalls these formative moments: “Our dad introduced us to the pole vault. We just fell in love with it—a kind of domino effect.” This familial support and shared passion for the sport created an environment conducive to elite performance.

Record-Breaking Physics and Technique

Duplantis’s success can be attributed not only to his physical capabilities but also to his technical execution of the vault. The process of pole vaulting requires a delicate balance of speed, strength, and timing. At take-off, Duplantis reaches speeds of 10.3 metres per second, significantly faster than his competitors, who typically hit around 9.4 to 9.7 m/s. This speed contributes to the kinetic energy he generates, which is crucial for clearing the bar.

Perfecting the Take-Off

When Duplantis approaches the pole vault, his take-off technique is critical. He positions his foot 20-30 cm in front of his hands at take-off, allowing for an optimal transfer of energy to the pole. This technique enables him to bend the pole effectively, utilising both his speed and the inherent energy of the pole to achieve maximum height. The precision of this technique is what distinguishes him from other vaulters, as he maintains a perfect balance between speed and control.

What Lies Ahead for Duplantis?

As of October 2023, the pole vaulting community is eagerly anticipating what Duplantis will achieve next. With discussions around the potential for a 6.40m clearance, there is a buzz surrounding the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he is expected to attempt this ambitious height. The excitement surrounding Duplantis is palpable, and his performances have reignited interest in pole vaulting globally.

Financial Incentives and Sponsorships

In the competitive world of athletics, financial incentives play a significant role. Athletes can earn bonuses of up to $100,000 (£74,000) for breaking world records at certain events. Sponsorship deals, like the one Duplantis has with Puma, can also provide additional incentives for record-breaking performances. This financial motivation adds another layer to the already high-stakes environment of elite athletics.

The Impact of Duplantis on Pole Vaulting and Beyond

Duplantis's influence extends beyond the pole vaulting community; he has captured the attention of sports fans worldwide. With nearly two million followers on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Duplantis has leveraged his popularity to venture into music, releasing his debut single “Bop” in February 2023, which quickly garnered millions of streams on Spotify.

The Showman in Duplantis

Those who know him best, including his sister Johanna and coach Todd Lane, attest to his authenticity. Johanna states, “He is very confident and humble. What he puts out there is who he is.” This blend of humility and showmanship resonates with fans, making him a relatable figure in sports. Lane further emphasises Duplantis's performance ability, comparing it to the grandeur of a Broadway production, particularly highlighting his ninth world record performance at the Paris Olympics.

Conclusions and Future Aspirations

As the pole vaulting landscape continues to evolve, Duplantis stands at the forefront, challenging the limits of human potential. His ability to consistently break records, coupled with his captivating personality, ensures that he will remain a central figure in athletics for years to come. Whether he aims for the elusive 6.40m mark or sets his sights even higher, the world watches in anticipation of what this extraordinary athlete will accomplish next.

FAQs

Who is Armand Duplantis?

Armand Duplantis, also known as 'Mondo', is a Swedish pole vaulter who has broken the world record multiple times since 2020, reaching a height of 6.29m in August 2025.

What records has Duplantis set?

Duplantis has set the men's pole vault world record 13 times, starting with a 6.17m clearance in February 2020, and most recently achieving 6.29m at the Hungarian Grand Prix in August 2025.

How does Duplantis's technique differ from other pole vaulters?

Duplantis’s technique involves a unique approach to take-off, maintaining speed and control while generating maximum energy. His positioning and timing when placing the pole are critical to his success.

What motivates Duplantis to break records?

Financial incentives, such as bonuses for breaking world records, alongside his passion for the sport and desire for personal achievement, motivate Duplantis to continually push his limits.

Is Duplantis involved in activities outside of pole vaulting?

Yes, Duplantis has a significant social media presence and has ventured into music, releasing his debut single “Bop” in February 2023.