Australian pole vaulter Nina Kennedy soared to new heights at the Monaco Diamond League on Friday, claiming gold with a stunning personal best and Oceanian record of 4.91 metres.
Record-Breaking Performance
Kennedy, 27, cleared the height on her second attempt, surpassing her previous best of 4.88m set earlier this year. The jump also broke the Oceanian record she shared with New Zealand's Eliza McCartney.
"It feels incredible," Kennedy said. "I've been working towards this for so long, and to do it in Monaco, one of the most prestigious meets, is amazing."
Competition Highlights
The field included Olympic champion Katie Moon of the United States, who took silver with 4.85m, and Great Britain's Molly Caudery, who claimed bronze at 4.80m. Kennedy's victory marks her first Diamond League win of the season.
Kennedy's coach, Paul Burgess, praised her consistency. "She's been building towards this all year. The technique and confidence are there, and tonight it all came together."
Impact on Season and Rankings
The win propels Kennedy to the top of the Diamond League standings with 16 points, ahead of Moon (14) and Caudery (12). With only two meets remaining before the final, Kennedy is well-positioned to contend for the overall title.
Kennedy's performance also strengthens her status as a medal contender for the upcoming World Championships in Budapest. Her previous best at a global championship was fifth at the 2023 World Championships.
