Claye and Taylor Duel in Triple Jump Thriller at Doha 2019 Worlds
In a nail-biting triple jump final at the IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019, Will Claye and Christian Taylor once again showcased their intense rivalry. Claye, the American jumper, took an early lead with an impressive 17.61m opener, but it was far from over.
Defending champion Taylor, known for his never-say-die attitude, responded in the fourth round with a mammoth 17.86m leap, taking the lead. Claye and Portugal’s Pedro Pablo Pichardo fought back, but it was Taylor’s 17.92m in the fifth round that sealed the deal, giving him his fourth world title.
Claye’s consistency shone through as he secured the silver medal with a best jump of 17.66m, his fourth outdoor global silver behind his former college teammate Taylor. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso’s Hugues Fabrice Zango made history, winning the bronze and his country’s first-ever medal at a senior global championships with a national record-breaking 17.66m.
“Doha is a very special city for me,” said Taylor, whose winning mark moved him ahead of world record-holder Jonathan Edwards in career top-10 average. “I always get a lot of love here and conditions are perfect. I wanted a farther jump, but I am grateful for the win.”
Claye, the 2019 world leader with 18.14m, graciously acknowledged Taylor’s superior performance on the day. “It was a matter of hitting the board properly and that was what Christian managed better today. I’m grateful for the medal.”
The intense rivalry and high-quality competition showcased the depth and drama of the men’s triple jump, captivating Jumping enthusiasts worldwide.
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