This Olympics’ high jump event was one that will never be forgotten, as two athletes Mutaz Essa Barshim of Qatar and Gianmarco Tamberi of Italy decided to share the gold medal between themselves, instead of doing a jump-off. This is the first time that a gold medal in athletics has been shared in Olympics history. The two jumpers who have also been close friends for over ten years, did not hesitate when the officials allowed them to share the win. The win erupted into ecstatic and passionate celebrations from the two athletes.
Mutaz, who asked the officials if the gold medal can be shared, is a well-established high jumper who won bronze in the 2012 London Olympics and Silver in 2016 the Rio Olympics. He also holds the national and Asian record with a mark of 2.43 m. Gianmarco Tamberi who also holds Italy’s national record, was not expected to win after not competing in the 2016 Olympics, because of a serious injury. Gianmarco though, similar to the story of the Italian national football team, came out of Tokyo as a gold medalist highlighting his passion and grit.
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This solidarity shown between the two high jumpers, is something we don’t normally see in competition. The joy they had to share the gold medal also shows the strong friendship the two have.
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