Olympic high jump champion Mutaz Barshim has achieved considerable success in his career, including three Olympic medals and three world titles. Despite his impressive accomplishments, Barshim remains motivated to keep winning and pushing himself further. He explained that he hides his medals and trophies at home to avoid complacency and maintain his drive for success. Barshim shared that he wants to be recognized as one of the high jump greats and hopes to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
During the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Barshim and Italian rival Gianmarco Tamberi both cleared 2.37 meters in the high jump event and decided to share the gold medal. Both athletes had overcome significant injuries to compete, and Barshim described the journey back to peak performance as nearly impossible. He expressed that the decision to share the gold was the best finish for him, as neither he nor Tamberi deserved silver after the sacrifices they had made. The moment of shared victory between the two competitors was a historical and memorable one, but Barshim believes it is unlikely to be repeated in the future.
Looking ahead to Paris 2024, Barshim is focused on defending his Olympic high jump title. He has already achieved the entry standard for the event and is determined to continue pushing his limits and striving for excellence. Despite his past successes, Barshim maintains a competitive mindset and a desire to be the best in his sport. He acknowledged the selfishness and drive that is common among athletes, emphasizing the importance of constantly pushing oneself to new heights and not settling for past achievements.
Barshim’s commitment to excellence and his dedication to his sport are evident in his approach to training and competition. He views high jump not as a single goal to be achieved, but as an ongoing pursuit of excellence and greatness. By hiding his medals and trophies, Barshim avoids feeling a sense of satisfaction and instead stays focused on his goals and aspirations. He envisions leaving a lasting legacy in high jump and wants his name to be synonymous with greatness in the sport.
The high jump champion’s determination and perseverance have been key factors in his success, as he has overcome significant challenges to reach the top of his sport. Barshim’s ability to bounce back from injuries and setbacks, as well as his unwavering commitment to excellence, have set him apart as a true competitor and champion. As he looks towards Paris 2024 and beyond, Barshim remains driven to achieve more and leave a lasting impact on the world of high jump. His dedication and passion for the sport serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and fans alike.
