“It was just a strange day” – the World Championship gold medalist shocked the world with the top result

Wilma Murto failed in the Zurich Diamond League, remaining at her starting height and thus the jumbo of the race. Australia’s Nina Kennedy won with a record 491.

Last week at the World Championships in Athletics, who won bronze in the pole vault Wilma Murto had to be badly disappointed in the Zurich Diamond League.

The actual Diamond League competition is held on Thursday, but the pole vaulters got a sneak start on Wednesday. The pole vault competition was exceptionally organized at the competition venue built at the Zurich train station.

Murto won the previous Diamond League race in London with his season-high score of 480.

Now Murto started in Zurich from a height of 451, but all three of his attempts failed miserably and the Finn remained the jumbo of the competition. France was also left without a result Margot Chevrierwho triple dropped 436.

Murto seemed embarrassed by his failure, as were his competitors. The last time Murto was scoreless in the Sweden match in 2021.

In an interview with the race organizer, Murro was asked what actually happened.

– The World Championship week, which we all have behind us, was physically and mentally very exhausting. Some have been able to handle it better than others. I did have a good feeling when I came here, but at the same time I just didn’t get the hang of jumping. It just happens sometimes, Murto explained in English.

At least it wasn’t a matter of fluctuating conditions in Zurich, as the race was practically held indoors.

– There are so many other factors than weather conditions. The conditions and the audience were great. It’s not about the environment, it’s about me.

Murro was also asked if it was different to jump when the public was so close to the jumping place.

– I don’t blame that either. This was just a weird day.

Murro’s coach Jarno Koivunen stated in SUL’s announcement that Murro’s “run was throwing”.

– Not a single sign was hit. Wilma’s physical condition was ok, but every run was a little different, and Wilma didn’t hit the mark.

In the World Championship on August 23, who shared the U.S Katie Moon and Australia Nina Kennedy were involved in the competition. The duo crossed the height of 490 in Budapest, Murto on the other hand 480.

Now in the Diamond League, Kennedey continued his amazing streak. He crossed 491 on his first. At the same time, Kennedy set a personal and country record, as well as the top result of the world season.

Moon was second in the competition with a score of 481. He tried once at 491 and then twice at 496, but had to surrender to the Australian.

Before the race in Zurich, Murto was third in the Diamond League points standings with Kennedy, Moon and Tina Sutej’n after. This foursome had already secured their place in Eugene, where the Diamond League finals will be contested on September 16-17.

Updated at 20:44. Added the final results of the race.