Nicola Olyslagers Secures High Jump Gold at World Athletics Championships in Tokyo Amidst Rain Delays

Historic Gold for Australia in Tokyo

Australian athlete Nicola Olyslagers has clinched the gold medal in the women's high jump at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan. The victory, achieved on Sunday, September 21, 2025, marks Olyslagers' first outdoor world title and Australia's inaugural gold medal of the championships. Her triumph came after navigating a challenging competition marred by significant rain delays.

Adverse Conditions and Decisive Clearance

The final of the women's high jump was heavily impacted by persistent and torrential rain, leading to two suspensions of the event. Despite the difficult conditions, Olyslagers maintained her composure, clearing every bar on her first attempt up to 2.00 metres. This flawless progression proved crucial, as she was the first to clear the 2.00m mark. Poland's Maria Żodzik also cleared 2.00m but required three attempts, placing her in the silver medal position on countback.

Podium Finishers and Olyslagers' Resilience

The competition saw Ukraine's Olympic champion and world record holder Yaroslava Mahuchikh, alongside Serbia's Angelina Topić, share the bronze medal, both clearing 1.97 metres. Olyslagers, who entered the championships as the world leader, expressed her joy and resilience in the face of the weather. She was quoted saying, 'This was just pure joy, even in the rain. I've seen so many bars fall off just by that small amount but when it stays on, what else could you say but 'Thank you, God.' High jump is a bit of luck but tonight was so special.' Her ability to perform under pressure, including waiting for an hour between attempts during the downpour, highlighted her mental fortitude.

A Season of Dominance

This gold medal caps a remarkable season for Olyslagers, who has demonstrated consistent dominance in the high jump. Prior to her Tokyo victory, she had already secured the World Indoor Championships title and the Diamond League trophy, setting a new Oceania record of 2.04m. Her performance in Tokyo further solidifies her position as a leading figure in global athletics.