Pole vault world record holder Armand Duplantis wins 100m sprint exhibition race against hurdles champion Karsten Warholm
Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis emerged victorious in a thrilling head-to-head 100m sprint exhibition race against Norwegian hurdler and sprinter Karsten Warholm at the IAAF Diamond League “Weltklasse” athletics meeting in Zurich. The event, billed as the “battle of legends,” saw Duplantis showcase his raw speed and sprinting prowess as he clocked an impressive time of 10.37 seconds to secure the win.
The friendly rivalry between the two athletes began after a training session last year, where Duplantis challenged Warholm to a race after boasting about his speed. Warholm, known for his dominance in the 400m hurdles and status as a world record holder and Olympic champion, accepted the challenge in a bid to settle the debate.
The showdown at the Letzigrund Stadium in Zurich was eagerly anticipated by fans and athletes alike, with around 2,500 spectators in attendance to witness the spectacle. Both athletes made a grand entrance onto the track, with Warholm sporting a red boxer’s robe and Duplantis in a blue robe, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.
Despite the high stakes and competitive spirit, both athletes maintained a sense of sportsmanship throughout the race. After crossing the finish line, Duplantis showed his respect for his opponent by throwing a cheeky glance towards Warholm, who graciously acknowledged his rival’s victory.
The exhibition race marked a unique opportunity for fans to witness two track and field superstars compete outside their respective disciplines. While Duplantis excelled in the sprint event, Warholm also showcased his versatility and competitive spirit in stepping up to the challenge.
As the spotlight now shifts to the upcoming Diamond League programme, fans can expect to see Warholm donning a Sweden top as part of their friendly wager. The thrilling sprint-off between Duplantis and Warholm serves as a reminder of the camaraderie and mutual respect shared by athletes in the world of track and field, showcasing the true spirit of sportsmanship and competition.
