PHOTO: Bildbyrån
When Armand Duplantis enters an athletics arena, he is usually certain to win.
Not this time.
– But I feel that I should be able to beat him, says the pole vault star ahead of the 100-meter duel against Norway’s Karsten Warholm.
At 21.30 on Wednesday evening, it will be decided once and for all who is the best sprinter of Armand Duplantisthe world’s best pole vaulter, and Karsten Warholmworld record holder in the 400 meter hurdles.
Duplantis has been eyeing the duel at the Letzigrund stadium in Zurich ever since he won Olympic gold, at a new world record height, in Paris a month ago.
– Karsten has the advantage of being more used to starting blocks. But after the Olympics, apart from the competitions I’ve participated in (world record also in Poland), I haven’t touched a pole. I have only focused on starting blocks, says Duplantis at a press conference the day before the race.
Handshake in Monaco
Duplantis started talking about running 100 meters already a couple of years ago. During a joint training session in Monaco last year, Karsten Warholm became interested in the idea, and in the end they shook hands.
From there there was no turning back.
– I wouldn’t have shaken his hand if I didn’t believe in myself. “Mondo” is truly world class. That’s why this is going to be so much fun. I will give him everything I have and I know he will do the same, says Warholm.
The article continues below.
Armand Duplantis is also confident. But it’s still a different feeling than he usually has before a competition.
– Nervous is perhaps not the right word, but I feel it. I’m less confident now than when it comes to pole vaulting, says Duplantis.
– That makes me happy to hear, Warholm answers quickly.
“Will sting”
As a high school student, Duplantis ran the 100 meters in 10.57 seconds. Now, in his first race since 2018, the 24-year-old is aiming for a time around 10.30. Warholm ran 100 meters in 10.49 seven years ago.
– When I did block starts in high school, top speed was my strength. But I’m much more explosive now than I was then. I can probably keep the top speed above 200 meters. I think I will get a good start and be good for the first 50-60 and then it’s just a matter of running, says Duplantis.
– I don’t go into this with any other thought than that I will win.
READ MORE: Thobias Montler’s tough decision after the huge Olympic disappointment – now completely breaks with profile coach Yannick Tregaro: “The worst”
Whoever loses can also expect some form of punishment, the two combatants confirm.
– It was “Mondo’s” idea, says Warholm.
– You will find out tonight. But it will sting, says Duplantis.
Who do you think will win the super duel tonight? Share the article and have your say!
Sign up for our newsletter
Share