On June 15, 2025, at Stockholm’s storied Olympic Stadium—home of legends since 1912—Armand “Mondo” Duplantis elevated his legend yet again. Before a r
On June 15, 2025, at Stockholm’s storied Olympic Stadium—home of legends since 1912—Armand “Mondo” Duplantis elevated his legend yet again. Before a raucous Swedish crowd and the presence of Usain Bolt, he cleared 6.28 meters on his first try, setting his 12th world record in the pole vault—a one-centimeter leap beyond his own latest mark.
But this wasn’t just another number in the record books—it was the realization of a dream, a family moment, and an invitation to celebrate in true track-and-field legend style.
A Dream Realized on Home Soil
For the first time in his illustrious career, the 25‑year‑old Swedish‑American did the unthinkable: break a world record on home soil. Having previously shattered bars in France, the U.S., China, and elsewhere, Stockholm’s majestic stadium was now added to that distinguished list . And it lived up to its reputation, as Stockholm erupted with cheers and relief—”It felt like the Olympics,” he admitted .
From early clearances through 6.00 m, he sailed each height on his first attempt. But the bar at 6.28 m brought tension. “It didn’t feel that natural … but I only needed one (try),” Mondo revealed, noting that only after landing did he believe he had truly done it ..
Family, Legacy & Emotional Lift
Mondo’s record wasn’t for the record alone—it was for his family. With parents, brothers, grandparents, and girlfriend Desiré Inglander in attendance, the moment was deeply personal. “It took me 10 minutes to hug them all,” he smiled, acknowledging the pressure and pride of achieving this feat in front of loved ones.
He even revealed a touching detail: his grandmother had asked him the day before to promise he’d break the record. That emotional weight added meaning to every inch of that bar .
Lightning Strikes Twice: Bolt & Duplantis
The image of sprint legend Usain Bolt, Olympic champion and world-record holder in the 100m & 200m, standing side by side with Mondo on the runway is iconic. Bolt, who watched the throwdown in Oslo before boarding a train to Stockholm, told Duplantis: “If I break the world record we can party tonight.” True to his word, a celebration of legend-making proportions awaited.
Reflecting on Bolt’s proximity and promise, Mondo replied: “For me it’s pretty cool … I’m sure it’s going to be a fun night with him.” And in very Swedish style, local media cheekily reported that they’d be “opening up to celebrate together … have a beer together” .That’s track‑and‑field history layered with friendship and shared triumph.
A Night to Remember for Swedish Athletics
It wasn’t only Mondo setting records. The evening also featured Andreas Almgren smashing the European 5,000m record (12:44.27), while Rai Benjamin upset Karsten Warholm in the men’s 400m hurdles. Femke Bol stormed to victory in her own hurdles event .
Indeed, it was one of those rare eight-to-ten-minute bursts of athletic brilliance, echoing the stadium’s golden era—a theme echoed by Almgren himself: “It was pretty crazy … a night that will be talked about” .
The ‘Why’ Behind the Incremental Record-Breaking
Mondo has a history of edging the bar by just a centimeter—setting 12 world records by doing so. It’s both a psychological tactic and a celebration strategy. Beyond sporting glory, he earns a hefty bonus—$30,000 to $100,000—each time he breaks it . Live updates and subtle boosts keep fans engaged and the record saga alive.
He’s raised the bar methodically, from 6.17m in 2020 to 6.28m now, with glimpses of even higher ambitions—perhaps reaching 6.40m next, armed with stiffer poles and relentless focus .
Humble Dominance: More Than Just Heights
Despite the attention, Mondo remains grounded. Once compared to celebrities like Tom Cruise or LeBron James, he prefers being called “grounded” rather than bigger-than-life . His career speaks volumes: two consecutive Olympic golds, three world titles, and now 12 world records. In April, he was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year, joining the ranks of Messi and Djokovic .
Yet he credits much to backing—family, coach-dad Greg, and his partner. They keep him anchored, even as he soars above 6 meters with daredevil grace.
What Comes Next?
The big question: How high can he go? Think Paris 2025. After this Stockholm explosion, Mondo hinted at pushing the record further—maybe nudging toward 6.30m, even 6.40m, with next-gen equipment and training decisions already underway .
Still, tonight will be for celebration. He’s earned that.
Final Take
Armand Duplantis didn’t just soar to 6.28m—he soared into the hearts of Sweden and the wider athletic world. It was elegant, emotional, and electric—a homegrown hero’s moment, surrounded by family, cheered by fans, and honored by a legend like Bolt. In stadiums built a century ago, a modern miracle unfolded.
Tonight, it’s about more than bars and beams. It’s about stories—of family, friendship, national pride, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. And come nightfall, with the flashbulbs fading, expect Stockholm to remember it—not just for the record, but for the human moments that make sport unforgettable.
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