Duplantis jumped a lap of honor in front of 67,000 delighted spectators – those who had just experienced one of the greatest moments in athletics. A barrier that was broken, a jump of 6.30 in the third and final attempt. Directed and performed by one of Sweden's absolute best athletes in all categories.
Sam Kendricks was happy to take a place in the chorus of praise, despite the disappointment over the missed medal.
I am one of Armand's biggest fans. I have jumped with him almost since I started as a professional. I have seen him grow, I have seen the look in his eyes, I have seen something special.
"Love how he drives the sport"
He is a fine, close friend to me. I love how he drives this sport. I love how he can always offer something extra. He has taken this sport to a level I did not think was possible, says Kendricks to SVT.
How high do you think he can jump?
I know he can jump higher.
Frenchman Renaud Lavillenie was Duplantis' idol when he was young.
One enjoys it. It's just crazy what he can do in almost all competitions, but above all in the championships. He is one of a kind. He gives everyone what they expect.
For our sport, it's big.
"Strange feeling"
When asked how it feels to have been Duplantis' idol, Renaud Lavillenie replies:
It's a nice but strange feeling. I'm just happy for his sake. He has done everything to be in this position. It's a nice time we can share.
I think the most important thing is to enjoy what he has done now, then we'll wait and see if he can break more world records, says the Frenchman to SVT.
Greek Emmanouil Karalis gave Duplantis a fight and was not far from becoming the second pole vaulter to clear 6.15.
It was a fantastic show. I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did. It was a fantastic evening. I'm glad my friend broke the world record. I tried my best to beat my own personal best and become the second best of all time.
Karalis wants to challenge Duplantis.
I hope that I will beat him sometime. That's why I'm here. That's why I train and push myself. I hope so. But regardless, win or lose, we will gather all the guys. Drink a glass of wine and enjoy.
