Armand Duplantis celebrates his gold medal next to the electronic scoreboard displaying the record of 6.30m, after the men's pole vault final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on 15/9/2025. Photo: *Reuters*

At Japan National Stadium on 15/9/2025, Duplantis cleared 6.30m, a height considered unthinkable just a few years ago.

In just 5 years, since first setting the record of 6.17m in 2020, Duplantis has raised the bar centimeter by centimeter, now reaching 6.30m. This achievement puts him a staggering 14cm ahead of the previous record holder, Renaud Lavillenie—a huge margin in pole vaulting.

According to Spanish newspaper *AS*, Duplantis's greatest strength lies in his mental fortitude. He shows no fear suspended over 6 meters in the air without any safety net or support. This absolute confidence gives him a distinct advantage.

This stems from Duplantis's lifelong connection with the pole. He began practicing in his garden and even indoors at the age of three. His parents, Greg and Helena, fostered his development with the sport, making it a natural part of his life.

Armand Duplantis in action at Japan National Stadium. Photo: *AS*

Technically, speed is the foundation of Duplantis's records. The Swedish star can run 100m in 10.30 seconds, rivaling many professional sprinters. He even beat 400m hurdles record holder Karsten Warholm in a 100m exhibition event before the 2024 Zurich Diamond League Weltklasse.

In his record-breaking jump in Tokyo, Duplantis hit the takeoff point at nearly 38 km/h, converting that into a vertical thrust equivalent to over 21 km/h. This propelled the 25-year-old skyward. While others struggle to control the momentum, Duplantis masters every movement, adjusting his body for a clean clearance.

Poles in this sport are made of fiberglass and weigh 4 to 5 kg. The material hasn't changed much since the era of Sergey Bubka, the Soviet legend who dominated the 1980s.

But the style of competition is different. Bubka focused on physique and strength, like a gymnast. Duplantis, weighing just 80kg, is a sprinter, relying on speed, body control, and exceptional skill. This combination creates a whole new approach, elevating pole vaulting to another level.

Armand Duplantis holds his Claw shoes in celebration after setting the record. Photo: *Reuters*

Another unique factor in Duplantis's historic jump was his Claw shoes. These custom-designed shoes feature spikes protruding from the front, resembling a medieval weapon. Duplantis only wears the Claws when he senses a world record opportunity. "When I think I have a chance at the record, I'll put the Claws on. It's not every time, but if I'm wearing them, it means business," he said.

The Claws allow Duplantis to accelerate faster during his 20-step run-up, plant his pole more securely, and transfer force more effectively for a higher jump. The first version featured sharp metal spikes, which could scratch his hands during takeoff. The manufacturer later added a rubber coating for safety.

In Tokyo, as the bar was raised to 6.30m, Duplantis chose to wear the Claws. After two unsuccessful attempts, he switched to a stiffer pole, achieving a perfect jump on his third try. The stadium erupted as he landed, teammates and competitors rushing to celebrate. This moment not only earned Duplantis his 14th world record but also cemented his status as one of the greatest track and field athletes of all time.

Hong Duy (*AS, The Guardian*)