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Armand Duplantis Makes History Once Again: 6.28m World Pole Vault Record in Stockholm

Stockholm, 15 June 2025 – Sweden’s Armand “Mondo” Duplantis has once again etched his name into the history books of athletics. On a dramatic Sunday evening at the Stockholm Olympic Stadium, the 25-year-old pole vaulting sensation soared to a world record height of 6.28 metres, surpassing his previous best (6.27m) by one centimetre.

The jump marks the twelfth world record of Duplantis’ already legendary career – and notably, the first one achieved on home soil in Sweden.

“I had never broken the record here in Sweden before. This is incredibly special. I’m grateful to be able to share it with my family, friends, and this amazing crowd,” Duplantis said, visibly emotional after his vault.


📈 A Perfect Performance, A Historic Jump

Duplantis executed a flawless series of jumps: clearing 5.60m, 5.80m, 5.90m, and 6.00m without a single failure. With the victory secured, he requested the bar be set at 6.28m — a height never before cleared by any athlete.

“When the bar went up to 6.28, honestly, it looked pretty high from down there. But something inside me knew this was the moment. Everything just clicked,” Duplantis explained in an interview with Reuters(Reuters, 15 June 2025).

He cleared the height on his very first attempt, sending the crowd of over 25,000 spectators into a rapturous celebration.

(European athletics)

👏 A Record Set at Home – with Legendary Guests in the Stands

Adding to the emotional weight of the occasion, Duplantis was surrounded by his family – including his mother, grandparents, siblings, and partner – as well as athletics royalty. Sprinting icon Usain Bolt watched from the stands and celebrated with Duplantis following his record-breaking jump.

“Having Usain here was amazing. He told me he wanted to see a record tonight – and I delivered. He’s one of my heroes, so sharing this moment with him made it even better” (SER, 15 June 2025).


🔍 Why This Record Matters

This latest world record does more than reinforce Duplantis’ dominance in pole vaulting – it also brings him significantly closer to the mythical 6.30-metre mark, a barrier that many experts once believed was out of reach.

It also raises the standard for younger athletes across Europe and the world:

“What Mondo is doing is unprecedented. He doesn’t just break records – he makes them look effortless,” commented British athletics legend Steve Cram during the BBC broadcast.


🔜 Road to Tokyo 2025

With this victory, Duplantis solidified his lead in the 2025 Diamond League and headed into the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo later this summer in peak form.

According to World Athletics, he currently holds the best performance of the season by a wide margin. His camp has not confirmed whether he will attempt to break the record again soon, but Tokyo seems like a likely stage.

“Some days, everything just flows. Today was one of those days. But I know I’ve still got more in me,” Duplantis said post-event, hinting that 6.30m may be within reach before the season ends.


📝 Final Thoughts: The King of Pole Vault Has No Ceiling

Armand Duplantis continues to defy the limits of what the human body can achieve. His record-breaking performance in Stockholm is not only a personal triumph but a milestone moment for European sport.

At SportEurope, we see this achievement as a celebration of excellence and resilience – and an inspiration to the new generation of athletes across the continent

(European athletics)

Europe on Top: Alcaraz Stuns Sinner in a Final for the Ages

Monday 9 June 2025, Paris – European tennis witnessed one of its most glorious chapters on Sunday at Court Philippe-Chatrier. Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz was crowned Roland Garros champion after an epic comeback against Italy’s Jannik Sinner, in a final that lasted five hours and 29 minutes and is already being hailed as one of the greatest ever played.

In a clash between two young talents born in the 21st century, Europe once again demonstrated why it is the cradle of world-class tennis. Alcaraz, 22, defeated the world No. 1 by 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(10-2).

👉 In fact, 83 of the last 84 Grand Slam titles have been won by European players – a level of dominance never before seen in the modern game.

(Olympics)

🔥 A Generational and Continental Duel

This was not only a showcase of physical and mental resilience, but also a reflection of Europe’s continued supremacy in the men’s game. Italy and Spain, two of the continent’s powerhouses, produced a match that will remain etched in fans’ memories.

Sinner, ice-cold and razor-sharp through the first two sets, looked to have the title within reach. But Alcaraz, a product of Spanish grit and heart, held firm, saved three championship points in the fourth set, and forced a fifth where he shone brightest.


👑 Alcaraz, Prince of Europe and of Clay

With this triumph, the Murcia native lifts his second Roland Garros trophy and his fifth Grand Slam title overall. Even more impressively, he has now won all five major finals he has contested – an unprecedented feat in the modern era.

“I thought of Rafa [Nadal], of what this court means… I couldn’t give up,” Alcaraz said through tears after the match.

There is also a symbolic layer to this victory: Alcaraz was a medallist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and now reigns on the very same clay where he once stood on the podium.


🤝 Sinner, a Worthy Opponent

Despite the defeat, Jannik Sinner showed exactly why he sits atop the ATP rankings. With precision, poise and remarkable maturity, the South Tyrolean pushed Alcaraz to the brink. His sportsmanship matched his level of play: “Carlos was better in the key moments. This is only the beginning,” he said after the match.


📈 A New European Rivalry Is Born

What we witnessed on Sunday was not merely a final, but the dawn of a legendary rivalry between two young Europeans poised to define a new tennis era. If Nadal and Federer shaped a golden generation, Sinner and Alcaraz represent the continental renaissance of the sport.

(Peter Staples / ATP Tour)

Karlos Nasar became the first Bulgarian to win gold medals at a European Championship, a World Championship, and the Olympic Games in the same year.

At the age of 20 years old, Nasar´s achievement have garnered international attention, with many considering him one of the most promising talents in weightlifting. Bulgaria is a country with a rich weightlifting history, which has been revitalized in recent years through the outstanding performances of this young athlete.


At the age of 16, Karlos earned silver in the snatch and total, and a gold medal in the clean & jerk event in the 2021 European Championship, establishing a European record of 206 kgs in the 81 kg category. In the same year, Nasar won the World Championships in the 81 kg category, setting a new record with a lift of 208 kgs and a total of 374 kg. And just one year later, he clinched the clean & jerk title in the 89 kg category at the World Championships in Bogotá, Colombia, with a world record lift of 220 kg at just 17 years old.


During 2023 European Championships in Yerevan, Armenia, Nasar broke five world records in the 89 kg division, including a 221 kg clean & jerk and a total of 395 kg. With each competition, each lift and kilo by kilo, Nasar was becoming a legend. However, during the same year, Nasar faced a significant leg injury that required surgery. He underwent rehabilitation under the guidance of his coach and returned to training, maintaining his competitive edge and continuing to break records port-recovery.


Less than a year later, the Bulgarian claimed the first medals of a golden year. During the European Weightlifting Championships, held in February in Sofia, Karlos secured three gold medals: snatch, setting a new World Junior Record with 176 kg, clean and & jerk and total.


In the same year, in his Olympic debut in Paris, Nasar won gold in the men´s -89kg event, breaking multiple world and Olympic records. Karlos Nasar lifted 180 kg in the snatch and a world record clean and jerk of 224 kg for a total of 404 kg, also a new world record.


And this was not all. In his final competition of 2024, World Championship in Manama, Bahrein, held in December, Nasar became the only male weightlifter to hold world records in two different categories. He set two world records at this tournament: 183 kg in the snatch and a total of 405 kg.


The next European Championships will take place in April 2025 in Chisinau, Moldova. Karlos Nasar will have a new chance to break again his own records.

EUROFOOTBALL FEVER: PARIS 2024 UNVEIL WOMEN’S AND MEN’S FOOTBALL GROUPS

The anticipation for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 is reaching a fever pitch as the groups for the women’s and men’s football competitions have been officially announced. European teams are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, competition, and the unyielding spirit of sport.

European Dominance Takes Centre Stage

In the women’s football tournament, Europe’s finest will be vying for glory across three fiercely contested groups. With powerhouses like France, Germany and Spain leading the charge, the stage is set for an electrifying display of skill and determination. The presence of European teams in each group underscores the continent’s dominance in women’s football and sets the scene for unforgettable clashes on the field.

Women’s Football Pools Unveiled

Group A sees hosts France facing off against formidable opponents Colombia, Canada and New Zealand, promising intense matchups from the get-go. Meanwhile, Group B features heavyweights USA and Germany, alongside Australia and a qualifier from Africa, setting the stage for an epic showdown. Group C promises no less excitement, with Spain, Japan, Brazil and a qualifier from Africa locking horns in a battle for supremacy.

Men’s Football: A European Showdown

The men’s football tournament offers equal excitement, with European teams poised to make their mark on the global stage. With star-studded lineups and fierce rivalries, every match promises to be a spectacle for football enthusiasts worldwide.

Men’s Football Pools Revealed

In Group A, hosts France will face stiff competition from the USA, New Zealand and the qualifier from the AFC-CAF playoff. Group B sees Argentina and Ukraine go head-to-head with Morocco and another qualifier from Africa, ensuring thrilling encounters from start to finish. Group C and D feature equally compelling matchups, with European powerhouses Spain among the teams battling it out for Olympic glory.

A Celebration of European Football

As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, the excitement surrounding the football competitions is palpable. With European teams poised to showcase their talent and determination on the world stage, fans can expect nothing short of an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling matches, unexpected twists and moments of pure sporting brilliance.

Stay Tuned for More Eurofootball Action

From the opening kick-off to the final whistle, SportEurope will be your ultimate destination for all the latest news, updates, and highlights from the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Don’t miss a moment of the action as Europe’s finest football teams compete for Olympic gold. Keep an eye out for more updates on European Olympic Committees initiatives and the latest happenings in European sport.

EOC REFUGEE TEAM ATHLETE CINDY NGAMBA SECURES A SPOT AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES

Cindy Ngamba, who represented the European Olympic Committees (EOC) Refugee Team at the European Games Kraków-Małopolska 2023, has made history by becoming the first Boxing Refugee Team member to qualify for the Olympic Games. 

Ngamba was one of three EOC Refugee Team members in Poland in 2023, where she carried the Team’s flag at the Opening Ceremony. She will now represent the International Olympic Committee Refugee Olympic Team at Paris 2024. The groundbreaking achievement unfolded at the Boxing Road to Paris 2024 First World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy, where Ngamba secured her qualification by winning a gripping quarter-final fight. Ngamba’s victory is a testament to her unwavering commitment and skill, stopping the formidable Valentina Khalova of Kazakhstan to secure her place at the Paris 2024 Olympics.  

Ngamba now lives and trains in the United Kingdom, having been born in Cameroon. Her journey to the top has been marked by resilience and determination, serving as a beacon of hope for many young athletes. Ngamba’s story illustrates that perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements and reflects the transformative impact of sport on individual lives. 

At Kraków-Małopolska 2023, Ngamba competed in the 75kg category and left an indelible mark on the event. 

As the EOC celebrates this historic achievement, the spotlight remains on the Refugee Team’s incredible athletes, emphasising their inspiring journeys and the profound impact of their presence on the Olympic stage. 

EOC President Spyros Capralos said:

“It is truly inspiring to see Cindy Ngamba qualify for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in boxing and make history in the process. The EOC is committed to giving opportunities to refugee athletes and focusing on the unique role that sport can play in driving social cohesion and bringing communities together. 

“We were honoured to host the first continental Refugee Team at the European Games last summer as a sign of our commitment and will all be supporting Cindy as she vies for glory in Paris this summer. We look forward to continuing our work with the Olympic Refuge Foundation and ensuring refugee athletes are represented at future editions of our events.” 

EUROPEAN TEAMS SHINE IN FIBA WOMEN’S OLYMPIC QUALIFYING TOURNAMENTS

Four European nations will join hosts France at Paris 2024 following FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments

Four European nations will join hosts France in the women’s basketball tournament at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 after they secured their quota spots at the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments.

The four FIBA Qualifying Tournaments were held in Belgium, Brazil, China and Hungary between 8 and 11 February, where Belgium, Germany, Serbia and Spain all booked their spots at the first Olympic Games to be held in Europe since London 2012. It is the first time that the German women’s basketball team have qualified for the Olympic Games.

They will compete against France in Paris, who are automatically given a quota place in the tournament as the host nation. The presence of five European sides in the 12-team competition highlights the strength and talent within the European basketball community.

France’s Gabby Williams: A Standout Performer

Despite France already being assured of a spot at Paris 2024, Gabby Williams emerged as one of the standout players at the qualifying tournament held in Xi’an, China. Despite playing an average of just 20.8 minutes per game, Williams showcased her exceptional skills by averaging an impressive 16.3 points and 2.7 steals per game. Her dynamic presence on the court will excite home crowds at the Olympic Games, where her performances could help the French team compete for medals.

Belgium’s Emma Meesseman: A Driving Force

Belgium’s Emma Meesseman played a pivotal role in her team’s success during the qualifiers in Antwerp, where record-breaking crowds witnessed her stellar performances. Meesseman recorded 17.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, displaying both scoring prowess and an ability to dominate the boards as Belgium secured their second-ever Olympic quota spot in women’s basketball.

European Presence: A Cause for Celebration

As the excitement builds for the upcoming Olympic Games, the European basketball community can take pride in having more teams qualified than any other continent.

Four European teams competed at Tokyo 2020, where France beat Serbia in the bronze-medal match, and the addition of a further team is testament to the continuous growth and competitiveness of women’s basketball in Europe.

ARTISTIC SWIMMING REVOLUTION: OLYMPIC HISTORY AT PARIS 2024

In a historic shift for artistic swimming, the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will witness a groundbreaking change, particularly impacting European athletes. For the first time in the history of the Olympic Games, men will be eligible to compete in the artistic swimming team event, adding a dynamic twist to the traditional discipline and creating gender parity.

Since its debut at the Olympic Games Los Angeles 1984, artistic swimming has seen minimal changes. However, the team event at Paris 2024 introduces two significant modifications:

  1. Men’s Eligibility: Paris 2024 sets a milestone by allowing men to participate in the artistic swimming team event. This decision, endorsed by the International Olympic Committee in December 2022, provides male athletes with a platform to make history.
  2. Acrobatic Routine Introduction: Alongside the inclusion of men, the team event will feature an acrobatic routine, injecting fresh excitement and creativity into the traditional artistic swimming format.

At Paris 2024, ten teams, each comprising eight swimmers, will compete in the artistic swimming team event. Italy’s Giorgio Minisini, the first man to participate in a major senior competition during the recent European Games Kraków-Małopolska 2023, exemplifies the positive impact of this rule change.

Minisini helped Italy to win three medals in the team events – silver in both the technical and free routines, and bronze in the acrobatic discipline – adding to gold in the technical mixed duet and silver in free mixed duet.

Expressing his thoughts on the rule change, Minisini stated: “We are now walking on a path towards inclusivity that will bring hope and opportunities to all athletes in our sport.”

European athletes like Minisini and French swimmer Quentin Rakotomalala aim to challenge stereotypes, emphasising inclusivity and diversity in artistic swimming.

As the Olympic Games approach, Europe stands at the forefront of this historic change, where men will challenge traditions and contribute to the ongoing evolution of artistic swimming. Paris 2024 promises to be a momentous chapter in the history of the sport, with European athletes playing a leading role in shaping its future.

WATER POLO POOLS UNVEILED FOR PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES

The final list of classified teams and pools has been revealed for both the men’s and women’s water polo competition at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

In the men’s discipline, Europe asserts its dominance with nine out of the twelve classified teams hailing from the continent. Notably, five European nations have earned a spot in both the men’s and women’s disciplines, namely France, Hungary, Italy, Spain, and Greece.

The pools for the men’s competition are defined as follows: Pool A boasts a formidable lineup with Croatia, Italy, Romania, USA, Greece, and Montenegro. Meanwhile, Pool B promises intense battles with France, Hungary, Spain, Serbia, Australia, and Japan. The competition promises to be as intense as ever, and with more European presence than ever!

In the women’s discipline, six out of the twelve classified teams are from Europe, further emphasising the continent’s prowess in the sport. The pools for the women’s competition are equally compelling. Pool A features Australia, China, Netherlands, Canada, Hungary, while Pool B showcases France, USA, Italy, Greece, and Spain. A strong lineaup of teams from across the globe ensures a thrilling and unpredictable competition at Paris 2024.

As we approach the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the water polo community is buzzing with excitement. The convergence of elite teams from Europe sets the stage for a truly amazing spectacle. Fans can look forward to witnessing intense battles in the water, and moments of sheer brilliance as the best water polo athletes from around the world vie for Olympic gold.

BREAKING, SPORT CLIMBING, SKATEBOARDING AND SURFING JOIN THE PARIS 2024 SPORTS PROGRAMME

As we gear up for the highly anticipated Olympic Games Paris 2024, there’s an extra dose of excitement. Breaking is set to make its debut on the grand stage, while sport climbing, skateboarding and surfing will appear for just the second time at an Olympic Games after Tokyo 2020. These sports will bring a fresh wave of energy and innovation to the Olympic Games, promising captivating performances and thrilling moments.

Breaking: From the European Games 2023 to Paris 2024

One of the most groundbreaking additions to the Olympic programme is breaking,. The electric and dynamic nature of breaking earned it a spot in the Olympic spotlight, and at the European Games Kraków-Małopolska 2023, the stage was set for athletes to secure their place at Paris 2024.

In the B-boy category, Dany from France wowed judges and spectators alike, clinching victory and earning his ticket to the Olympic Games. Similarly, in the B-girl category, India from the Netherlands showcased exceptional skills, securing her spot in Paris 2024. These two European athletes are set to make history as they step onto the Olympic stage for the inaugural edition of breaking at the Games.

Sport climbing

Sport climbing, a sport that involves speed, strength and precision, is set to captivate audiences at Paris 2024. The addition of sport climbing to the Olympic programme reflects a commitment to embracing diverse and dynamic disciplines.

Athletes from around the world will compete in speed climbing, and bouldering and lead combined, showcasing their versatility and mastery of various techniques.

Skateboarding

Skateboarding, a sport synonymous with urban culture and creativity, is set to inject an extra dose of “cool” into the Olympic Games Paris 2024. With street and park disciplines on display, skateboarders will showcase their skills on ramps, rails and other obstacles, promising a new and refreshing visual spectacle for fans around the world.

Skateboarding’s inclusion in the Olympic Games is a testament to the sport’s global appeal and its ability to resonate with a diverse audience. Get ready to witness the unique style and flair of skateboarders as they roll into the Olympic arena for the first time.

Surfing

Paris 2024 will further expand the reach of the Olympic Games through the inclusion of surfing at Teahupo’o, Tahiti. Surfers will hit the waves, combining athleticism and artistry as they navigate the dynamic ocean conditions.

The inclusion of surfing aligns with the Olympic values of embracing nature and celebrating the diversity of sports. Expect breathtaking manoeuvres and thrilling rides as surfers from around the globe showcase their passion for this iconic water sport.

The inclusion of breaking, sport climbing, skateboarding and surfing at Paris 2024 promises to elevate the Olympic experience to new heights. As athletes from diverse backgrounds and cultures converge to compete in these innovative disciplines, the spirit of the Games will undoubtedly be enriched with excitement, creativity and a sense of unity. Get ready to witness history in the making as these four dynamic disciplines take their place on the Olympic stage.

EUROPEAN TRIUMPH: A RESOUNDING SUCCESS AT THE WINTER YOUTH OLYMPIC GAMES IN GANGWON

The 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games held in Gangwon, Republic of Korea, showcased the outstanding performances of European athletes. European nations claimed six out of the top ten spots on the medal table, with the Italian team leading, followed by Germany and France. Austria, Sweden and Great Britain also proudly stood amongst the top 10 nations from around the globe. 

Europe’s Dominance at the Winter YOG Gangwon 2024

More than 1,135 athletes represented European National Olympic Committees (NOCs) at the Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024, reinforcing the continent’s dedication to nurturing and showcasing emerging talent in winter sports. These remarkable young athletes embarked on a global journey, travelling around the world with a shared dream — to compete and triumph on the grand stage while proudly representing not only their respective countries, but also the collective spirit of Europe.

The Trajectory of European Athletes

A notable highlight of the Winter Youth Olympic Games was the return of athletes who had previously competed at the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) held in Friuli Venezia Giulia in 2023. This continuity allowed athletes such as the young Czech sensation Ilona Plechacova and the talented Italian athlete Carlotta Gautero in biathlon to extend their experience to the global stage. Their incredible participation and performances at Gangwon 2024 played a huge role in the success of the European contingent.

The 2023 Winter EYOF in Friuli Venezia Giulia served as a pivotal chapter in the journeys of numerous European athletes, laying the foundation for their stellar performances in Gangwon. Among these accomplished individuals are Poland’s Hanna Mazur and Norwegian Miika Johan Klevstuen in speed skating, Hungary’s Dominik Major in short track speed skating and several others who have once again showcased their skills and determination on the international stage, reaffirming their status as consistent and admirable competitors.

The Winter Youth Olympic Games also saw the emergence of European athletes as multi-medallists. Speed skater Angel Daleman of the Netherlands, for instance, clinched an impressive four medals across her events, while Alpine skier Maja Waroschitz of Austria demonstrated her skill by securing multiple gold medals. These athletes not only showcased their individual talents but also played a pivotal role in contributing to Europe’s overall success at the Games.

A historic moment unfolded as 16-year-old Muhammed Bozdağ claimed Türkiye first-ever Winter Youth Olympic Games medal. Bozdağ’s exceptional performance in the men’s 1,000m short track speed skating competition earned him a well-deserved second place, marking a significant achievement for Turkish winter sports.

Road to Milano Cortina 2026

Gangwon 2024 has served as a remarkable stepping stone for European athletes on their journey to the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The experiences from Gangwon 2024 are poised to be instrumental in shaping the trajectory of these young athletes. Each race, each jump and each triumph contributed to a reservoir of invaluable lessons and insights that will fortify their skills and resilience for the challenges that inevitably lie ahead.

In two years’ time, many of these young European athletes who made their mark in Gangwon will embark on a journey to the world’s biggest stage —the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The significance of this progression goes beyond the medals and accolades; it encapsulates a transformative period in their lives, where they evolve from promising talents to seasoned competitors on the global stage. The experiences garnered in Gangwon will have played a crucial role in preparing them for the heightened competition, larger audiences and the immense honour of representing their countries on the grandest winter sports platform.

The Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024 have etched a defining chapter in the story of European winter sports dominance. As these young athletes transition from the Winter EYOF in Friuli Venezia Giulia to the Winter Youth Olympic Games and look forward to Milano Cortina 2026, Europe not only participates but sets the standard for excellence. The future appears promising as these athletes continue to inspire, paving the way for the next generation of winter sports champions.

In summary, the Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024 provided a platform for European athletes to demonstrate their skills and make their mark in various winter sports. The consistent presence of European nations at the top of the medal table, the return of experienced athletes and the emergence of multi-medallists highlighted the depth of talent within the European contingent. As the Games concluded, Europe could celebrate the achievements of its athletes and anticipate continued success on the international stage.