Karalis: “I could break the world record and still finish second”

Pole vaulting is enjoying a golden age. “It’s fantastic how high people are jumping these days,” says Karalis on the eve of the Wanda Diamond League final at the Allianz Memorial Van Damme. “By jumping over 6 metres, you might still only finish fourth or fifth. Or I might even break the world record and still only finish second.”

Karalis is referring to the incredibly thrilling competition in Zurich a week ago, where he cleared 6.20 metres for the first time in his career and then went on to attempt 6.32 metres – the world record height. “I didn’t manage it, but I felt those were good attempts, that one day it might be possible.” But then there’s always Mondo Duplantis, who still manages to set the bar a little higher than his rivals. In Zurich, the Swede ultimately triumphed with a jump of 6.25 metres.

Isn’t it frustrating having to compete against someone like Duplantis, who has – so far – won everything? “No, I’m glad I’m living in ‘his’ era,” says Karalis. “Mondo shows everyone what’s possible. In doing so, he’s broken down mental barriers for me and many other pole vaulters. We’re enjoying a fantastic era, with some incredible jumps. That’s good for the sport, for the public, for everyone. Mondo pushes me, but I push him too to become even better.”

Will Karalis manage to beat Duplantis on Friday? “We both have our strengths. He’s faster, I’m stronger. But there’s no single best way to be the best pole vaulter. Bubka and Lavillenie back in the day were different types too. And of course, I want to win competitions and trophies. We’re rivals, but also – and above all – good friends. Whatever the outcome on Friday… afterwards, Mondo and I will have a nice glass of wine together at the bar.”