Duplantis' 41-win streak ends with loss at home Diamond League event in Stockholm

Armand Duplantis falls to second place at Stockholm Diamond League

According to Главком: Two-time Olympic gold medalist Armand Duplantis finished runner-up at the Stockholm Diamond League, snapping an extraordinary 41-meet winning streak. Australian Kurtis Marshall claimed victory, as the only competitor to clear 5.90 meters on the night.

For Duplantis, the competition marked his first loss in 35 months. The Swedish star cleared 5.60 meters and 5.80 meters on his first attempts, but then failed twice at 6.00 meters and missed his final try at 6.05 meters, settling for second place. His final result of 5.80 meters tied him with France's Baptiste Thierry for the runner-up spot.

What this defeat means and what comes next

This loss carries significant weight-the last time Duplantis was beaten was in July 2023 at the Monaco Diamond League, where he finished fourth and Marshall placed third. During his historic streak, Duplantis defended his Olympic title in Paris and captured two outdoor and two indoor world championships. He also broke the world record ten times, most recently in March 2026 when he raised the bar to 6.31 meters.

Duplantis: 'Today I felt a bit unfocused. I really didn't want to lose here, in front of my family and fans. I haven't lost in, what, three years? But I take my hat off to Kurtis-he won fair and square today, no excuses. I'm not angry, and I'm just going to enjoy my time in Stockholm with my loved ones. I'm getting married soon, so if there's a saying like 'unlucky in sports, lucky in love,' that's me. I have more important things in my life right now.'

Duplantis plans to skip the next Diamond League event due to his wedding. At 26 years old, he remains one of the most accomplished pole vaulters in history.

This defeat could mark a pivotal moment in Duplantis' career, showing that even the greatest athletes face setbacks. Given his past success, it may fuel further growth. At the same time, his wedding plans highlight that personal life matters greatly, especially amid elite competition. Duplantis stays positive, which could shape his future performances in the sport.

This unexpected outcome raises questions about Duplantis' upcoming participation in future events, especially considering the recent withdrawal of another top competitor. For instance, the reigning world champion Doroshchuk has also opted out of the Rome Diamond League meet, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport. As Duplantis shifts his focus toward personal milestones, fans are eager to see how these developments will impact the competitive landscape in pole vaulting.