The crowd at Japan National Stadium cheered out loud when Mondo Duplantis soared to a breathtaking 6.30 meters. Family, coaches, fans, and rivals watched in stunned awe as he defied gravity once more to set a world record for the 14th time. Not only did he receive a standing ovation from the 53000 spectators in the stadium, but 8.27 million Swedish fans also rooted for the 25-year-old through their screens. Now, almost three weeks later, the pole vaulter joined his Swedish fandom to celebrate his iconic World Championships win.

After winning his career’s third straight World Championship gold, it was therefore time for a new visit to Dalarna in Sweden. Back in Duplantis’ mom’s hometown of Avesta, Sweden, celebrations erupted as he set yet another record. In front of the locals, the world-

See Full Page