By A Correspondent
Ernest John Obiena of the Philippines won the title at the Allianz Memorial Van Damme in Brussels last night (Sept 2) ahead of world and Olympic champion and world record holder Mondo Duplantis of Sweden.
The 26-year-old Filipino cleared 5.91 metres on his third attempt while the Swede failed on all his three attempts after having effortlessly scaled over 5.80m on his first attempt.
It was the first victory for Obiena over the world record holder in 22 meetings since 2019. The Italy-based Obiena had won the bronze in the World Championships in Eugene, USA, in July with an Asian record of 5.94m. It was also his first victory in the Diamond League.
Obiena has been in great form this season. He has four marks over 5.90m this season including one indoors. He defended his South East Asia title at Hanoi in May and went on to to take the World championships bronze on a countback with American Chris Nilsen after both cleared 5.94m. Duplantis had then won the title with a world record 6.21m. Nilsen finished third last night at Brussels with 5.71m.
After 20 straight victories beginning 28 August 2021, Duplantis lost for the first time.“I’m human and I make mistakes and I made some today,” said Duplantis.—-
