World Champion Mondo Duplantis Left Smiling After Girlfriend’s Heartwarming Gesture at Mondo Classic

Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis’ name isn’t unknown to any who follows pole vault. Not only in the Olympics, he has made strides in a wide range of events, including the World Championships and the Diamond League. The Swedish-American pole vaulter secured a throne for himself that’s almost impossible to challenge. On top of that, he has an event named after him, which saw the reigning champion rule again.

With Paris 2024 looming this summer, the amazing start to the year has cemented Mondo’s status as the undefeatable force. Pushing US rivals KC Lightfoot and Sam Kendricks in second and third comparatively, he victory-waved at his home crowd. But there was a special someone whose presence lighted up his heart more.

Mondo Duplantis’ heart skipped a beat

Gracing the spectators’ box at the Mondo Classic was none other than his partner, Desiré Inglander. The love birds have never shied away from showcasing their romance publicly, and this time, it was no different. Resorting to her Instagram, Inglander has posted, “Stolt” which translates in English as ‘proud’. She paired the caption with a red heart emoji but didn’t stop there. The video that came along featured the adorable influencer waiting with a bouquet, ready to steal her boyfriend for a quick kiss. Whoever took the video understood the assignment, therefore capturing the moment beautifully.

The two first met on Midsummer Eve, a Swedish tradition that has been running strong for decades. Even if Duplantis wouldn’t have been so forthright about his relationship, he thanks his girlfriend for encapsulating the real essence of their bond through pictures and videos. Having said so, the focus event we’re having a glimpse of was like a warm-up for the 24-year-old, who heads to Paris in July.

Mondo’s recent win upped his expectations

Coming off a 5.92m, it was enough to defeat his rivals despite weak later attempts. But as compared to last year’s win, the height he achieved wasn’t satisfactory to him. He said, “To be able to come away with the win it definitely was the most important part. I wanted to jump higher, I think it was possible, but I had a tricky time on the runway today in terms of the poles”. 

READ MORE: Reports Claim World Record Holder Mondo Duplantis Will Defend Multiple Titles Before Paris Olympics 2024

For athletes of such measure, it’s not always about besting the counterparts, but breaking own records with each passing event. “The atmosphere was fantastic. I wish I could have jumped a little higher for them. It just didn’t happen today.” The height Duplantis achieved was tough for the runners up to match. Imagine the height he aims to reach.

Watch this story: Noah Lyles Is All In, Rooting for the $155M Esports Giants at World 2023