Mutaz Barshim became the first male high jumper to win three consecutive gold medals at the World Championships – 2017 (London), 2019 (Doha), 2022 (Eugene) and holds the Asian record at 2.43m. His victory in Doha in 2019 marked him as the first male high jumper to defend a world championship title successfully. His bronze for Qatar at the 2024 Games will now sit alongside his gold from 2020 and the silvers he won in 2012 (London Olympics) and 2016 (Rio Olympics), making him the first athlete representing an Arabic country to win four Olympic medals. Yet Barshim’s – like any sportsperson’s – is also peppered with challenges and comebacks. QH traces his crowning moments alongside his challenges.
Born to Sudanese parents residing in Doha, Barshim’s father played a pivotal role in his early interest in athletics. Watching his father (who competed internationally in race walking and distance running) on television and attending events sparked his enthusiasm. Despite starting with walking and long-distance running, it was the encouragement of his then club coach Helmy Abosalama that led him to focus on high jump, post which Barshim started training regularly in Poland under the guidance of Stanislaw Szczyrba, whose dedication and innovative coaching methods have been instrumental in Barshim’s success.
After collecting his medal at Paris Olympics, Barshim confirmed that this was his final Olympic Games.
“My feelings of pride today are beyond words,” he posted on Instagram.
“I had the honor of raising my country’s flag in four Olympic Games with four medals.”
“I’m thankful for all the support from my country, Qatar, my family, my supporters worldwide and my team who have stood by me throughout more than 13 years of local and international competitions.”
“With this Olympic Games, I conclude my Olympic journey, and I am truly happy to have stood on the podium in all my participations. #WhatGravity .”
Challenges & comebacks
In 2018, Barshim injured his left ankle while attempting to break Javier Sotomayor’s world record at the Istvan Gyulai Memorial in Hungary. The injury required surgery, and doctors gave him a slim chance of recovery. However, Barshim defied the odds and returned to win world championship gold in 2019.
Philosophy & future goals
Barshim lives by the motto: “Make as much effort as you can; a lot of sacrifice is required to be among the best.” Barshim’s journey is a testament to perseverance, dedication, and passion for high jump. His story continues to inspire many young athletes around the world.
