Ukraine’s Yaroslava Mahuchikh Captures Women’s High Jump Gold at World Athletics Championships

August 27, 2023 – Ukraine’s Yaroslava Mahuchikh secured the women’s high jump gold medal at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, on Sunday. The 21-year-old soared to a 2.01m clearance, clinching her first senior outdoor world title after previously winning the indoor crown in 2022 and claiming silver medals at the 2019 and 2022 World Championships.

Mahuchikh’s near-flawless performance saw her overcoming the challenge of defending champion Eleanor Patterson of Australia, who took silver with a 1.99m jump. Compatriot Nicola Olyslagers, the Olympic silver medalist, also cleared 1.99m to earn the bronze medal.

“I am so proud to win this gold for my country,” said an elated Mahuchikh. “Silvers from Doha and Eugene definitely were not enough for me. I have been one of the best woman high jumpers over the last few years and I badly wanted to become the best in the world officially.”

The Ukrainian athlete managed an impressive series of jumps, clearing 1.90m, 1.97m, and 1.99m on her first attempts before soaring over 2.01m on her second try. Though she fell short in her attempts at a potential personal best of 2.07m, Mahuchikh’s gold medal-winning performance solidified her status as one of the world’s premier high jumpers.

Patterson, who had sustained a foot injury earlier this year, was delighted with her silver medal, stating, “This silver feels like gold to me. The last six months have been so tough. I broke my foot, so to come here and win silver is special. I am proud of myself as it has been a chaotic journey.”

The thrilling women’s high jump final capped off the field event action at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest.

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