India’s national high jump record holder, Sarvesh Kushare, produced a memorable performance on his Diamond League debut, finishing third at the Monaco Diamond League 2026 with a best clearance of 2.26m.
Competing against some of the world’s finest high jumpers, Sarvesh delivered a flawless series through 2.12m, 2.16m, 2.20m, 2.23m, and 2.26m, clearing every height on his first attempt. At one stage of the competition, only Sarvesh and eventual champion Oleh Doroshchuk had maintained a perfect record through 2.26m.
Sarvesh then made three strong attempts at 2.28m but was unable to clear the height, bringing an end to an outstanding debut on the prestigious Diamond League circuit.
Ukraine’s Oleh Doroshchuk claimed the men’s high jump title with a clearance of 2.32m, while Great Britain’s Jack Kimani finished second with 2.30m. Sarvesh secured third place with 2.26m, marking one of the best international performances of his career.
Men’s High Jump Results – Monaco Diamond League 2026
1. Oleh Doroshchuk (Ukraine) – 2.32m
2. Jack Kimani (Great Britain) – 2.30m
3. Sarvesh Kushare (India) – 2.26m
Sarvesh entered the competition in outstanding form, having broken the Indian national high jump record with a clearance of 2.31m in his previous meet. He has already been selected to represent India at the 2026 Commonwealth Games and is also expected to feature at the 2026 Asian Games, with the athletics squad yet to be officially announced.
India heads into the Commonwealth Games 2026 with strong medal aspirations in the men’s high jump, where Sarvesh Kushare and Aadarsh Ram will represent the country in a highly competitive field.
Leading India’s challenge is Sarvesh Kushare, who has enjoyed an outstanding 2026 season. His season-best clearance of 2.31m places him joint-first among all Commonwealth athletes this year, alongside Australia’s Kimani Jack. The mark underlines Sarvesh’s consistency and positions him as one of the leading contenders for the podium in Glasgow.
Joining him is Aadarsh Ram, who has also impressed this season with a best clearance of 2.27m. His performance ranks sixth among Commonwealth athletes, putting him firmly in the mix in what promises to be one of the closest high jump competitions of the Games.
The season rankings reflect the depth of talent expected in Glasgow. Australia’s Kimani Jack shares the top spot with Sarvesh at 2.31m, while Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford has cleared 2.30m. Olympic champion Hamish Kerr of New Zealand and Australia’s Yual Reath have both recorded 2.28m, with Aadarsh completing the top six at 2.27m.
Notably, all six athletes on the season list have been selected by their respective countries for the Commonwealth Games, ensuring that the event will feature every leading performer from the 2026 season.
For India, the combination of Sarvesh’s joint-leading mark and Aadarsh’s consistent performances provides genuine optimism. Sarvesh enters the competition as one of the favourites after matching the best clearance among Commonwealth athletes this season, while Aadarsh has shown that he possesses the ability to challenge the strongest field of his career.
With two athletes ranked among the Commonwealth’s top six and both arriving in Glasgow in excellent form, India has every reason to believe it can contend for medals in the men’s high jump at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
For more visit Commonwealth Games 2026
Eighteen-year-old Shahnavaz continued his remarkable rise in Indian athletics with a sensational performance at the 65th National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships 2026, producing a lifetime-best jump of 8.30m to shatter the Indian U20 national record and secure qualification for the upcoming Asian Games.
Competing against some of the country’s finest long jumpers, the youngster delivered the performance of his career when it mattered most. His impressive leap not only earned him the Asian Games qualification standard but also established a new benchmark in Indian U20 athletics.
The 8.30m effort stands as India’s all-time best performance in the U20 category, underlining the extraordinary nature of his achievement. On the continental stage, the mark ranks as the second-best U20 performance in Asian history, while globally it is the seventh-best U20 mark of all time. These statistics place Shahnavaz among the most promising young long jumpers in the world.
The record-breaking jump also represented a new lifetime best, further highlighting the rapid progress the 18-year-old has made over the course of the season. Shahnavaz has been in exceptional form throughout the year, consistently improving his performances and registering multiple personal bests across competitions.
His latest achievement at the Interstate Championships confirms his emergence as one of India’s brightest young athletics prospects. Delivering such a high-quality performance on one of the country’s biggest domestic stages reflects both his talent and his ability to compete under pressure.
The Interstate Championships have produced several memorable performances this season, but Shahnavaz’s record-breaking leap stands among the most significant. By rewriting the Indian U20 record and comfortably surpassing the Asian Games qualification standard, he has announced himself as a serious contender for future international success.
With youth on his side and confidence soaring after this historic performance, Shahnavaz has taken a major step forward in his career. His outstanding 8.30m jump is not only a milestone for Indian athletics but also a glimpse of an exciting future for one of the nation’s most promising young stars.
Murali Sreeshankar announced his return in spectacular fashion at the 65th National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships 2026, producing a sensational 8.38m leap to win the men’s long jump title and secure qualification for the upcoming Asian Games.
Competing at one of India’s most important domestic meets, Sreeshankar delivered when it mattered most. His winning jump of 8.38m not only earned him the national title but also reaffirmed his place among the country’s greatest long jumpers. The effort stands as India’s third-best long jump of all time and ranks as the second-best jump of his career, highlighting the significance of his performance.
The mark also carries major international importance. Sreeshankar’s 8.38m leap is currently the best performance in Asia this season and the ninth-best mark in the world this season, placing him among the leading long jumpers on the global stage. Just as importantly, the jump comfortably surpassed the Asian Games qualification standard, ensuring his place among India’s top contenders for the continental event.
The performance marks a memorable comeback for the accomplished long jumper, who once again demonstrated his ability to deliver under pressure. Producing one of the finest jumps of his career at a crucial stage of the season reflects both his consistency and competitive temperament.
The Interstate Championships have witnessed several outstanding performances this year, but Sreeshankar’s 8.38m effort undoubtedly ranks among the highlights of the competition. Beyond securing the national title, the jump reinforces India’s growing stature in the horizontal jumps and provides a significant boost ahead of the Asian Games.
With the Asian Games approaching, Sreeshankar’s return to top form could not have come at a better time. By producing the best jump in Asia this season and one of the world’s leading performances, he has sent a clear message that he is once again ready to challenge at the highest level.
It was a comeback worthy of one of India’s finest long jumpers, and a performance that has reignited excitement ahead of the international season.
Indian high jump has a new record holder.
Sarvesh Kushare produced the performance of his career at the 65th National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships, clearing 2.31 metres on his third attempt to set a new Indian national record in the men’s high jump.
The Maharashtra athlete eclipsed the previous national record of 2.29m, held by Tejaswin Shankar, by two centimetres, marking one of the biggest breakthroughs in Indian track and field this season.
The record-breaking clearance was even more remarkable considering Kushare’s previous personal best stood at 2.28m. Faced with the bar at 2.31m after successfully negotiating the earlier heights, he rose to the occasion, producing a flawless clearance on his final attempt to etch his name into the record books.
The moment sparked jubilant celebrations as Kushare realised he had become the highest-ever jumper in Indian athletics history.
The achievement is the culmination of years of steady progress for the 30-year-old, who has represented India at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and World Championships. Long regarded as one of the country’s most consistent high jumpers, Kushare had repeatedly come close to rewriting the national record before finally breaking through in spectacular fashion.
The previous mark of 2.29m, set by Tejaswin Shankar, had stood as the benchmark for Indian high jumping. Kushare has now taken the event to a new level, becoming the first Indian to clear 2.30 metres and beyond in competition.
The timing of the performance could hardly have been better. With the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games fast approaching, the new national record sends a strong message that Indian high jumping is entering a new phase, with Kushare carrying outstanding form into the biggest competitions of the year.
Beyond the record itself, the performance is another encouraging sign for Indian athletics, which has witnessed a series of national records and Asian Games qualification marks during the Inter-State Championships.
On a memorable evening in Bhubaneswar, however, one performance stood above the rest.
2.31 metres.
A new national record.
A new benchmark for Indian high jump.
And a historic leap by Sarvesh Kushare.
Indian pole vault sensation Dev Meena continued his remarkable rise by breaking the men’s national record once again at the 65th Interstate Athletics Championships 2026, clearing 5.46 m to set a new Indian mark.
The performance not only earned Meena another national record but also secured the Asian Games 2026 qualification standard, further cementing his status as one of India’s most exciting field event athletes.
This latest achievement marks Meena’s second consecutive national record-breaking performance, highlighting his rapid progression in the event. Even more remarkably, it is the fifth time the Indian men’s pole vault national record has been improved in less than two years, reflecting the unprecedented growth of the discipline in the country.
Meena’s consistent record-breaking performances have transformed the landscape of Indian pole vaulting. With every competition, the young vaulter continues to push the boundaries of what was once considered possible in Indian athletics.
His 5.46m clearance adds another chapter to what has become a genuine pole vault revolution in India.
For now, the spotlight firmly belongs to Dev Meena, who has once again rewritten the national record books and reaffirmed his position as India’s leading pole vaulter.
India’s top pole vaulters will be in action today at 16:30 IST at the Interstate Athletics Championships 2026, with the Asian Games qualification mark on the line.
Elite Line-up:
1⃣ Dev Meena – 5.45m (NR)
2⃣ Kuldeep Yadav – 5.45m (NR)
3⃣ Reegan Ganesh – 5.35m
4⃣ M Gowtham – 5.20m.
In their last competition, both Dev Meena and Kuldeep Yadav broke the national record and now jointly hold it at 5.45m.
The men’s pole vault national record has been improved four times since last season, rising from 5.31m to 5.45m — a remarkable leap for the event in India.
The Asian Games qualification standard also stands at 5.45m, meaning athletes will need to match or better that mark here to secure their ticket to the Games.
What are your predictions?
Can we witness another national record today?
The men’s javelin throw at the Rome Diamond League brings together Olympic medallists, world champions, former Diamond League winners and emerging talents from across the globe. With multiple athletes in the field capable of throwing beyond 85 metres, fans can expect a high-quality contest featuring some of the biggest names in the event. Here’s a closer look at the athletes competing in Rome.
1. Rumesh Tharanga (Sri Lanka)
Rumesh Tharanga has emerged as one of Sri Lanka’s leading field event athletes and continues to raise the profile of javelin throwing in the country. The Sri Lankan has steadily improved over recent seasons, producing several national-level performances that have earned him opportunities on the international circuit. Known for his strong run-up and aggressive throwing style, Tharanga represents a growing generation of South Asian field athletes aiming to challenge the sport’s traditional powerhouses. Competing in Rome offers valuable exposure and an opportunity to test himself against Olympic champions, world medallists and some of the finest throwers in the world.
2. Sachin Yadav (India)
Sachin Yadav has rapidly become one of India’s most promising javelin throwers. The young athlete announced himself with a series of impressive performances on the domestic circuit and has continued to improve against international competition. Standing out for his physical strength and technically sound throwing action, Yadav is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading prospects behind Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra. Rome represents one of the biggest stages of his career so far. A strong performance against a world-class field would further underline India’s growing depth in the men’s javelin and boost Yadav’s confidence heading into future championships.
3. Anderson Peters (Grenada)
Anderson Peters remains one of the biggest names in global javelin throwing. The Grenadian is a two-time world champion and one of only a handful of athletes in history to throw beyond 90 metres multiple times. Renowned for his explosive power and consistency, Peters has spent several years competing at the highest level of the sport. His ability to deliver massive throws under pressure makes him a favourite whenever he enters a competition. Rome provides another opportunity for the former world champion to remind the athletics world why he remains one of the most feared competitors in men’s javelin.
4. Thomas Röhler (Germany)
Thomas Röhler is one of the most accomplished javelin throwers of the modern era. The German star won Olympic gold at Rio 2016 and owns a personal best of 93.90m, one of the longest throws ever recorded. Throughout his career, Röhler has been admired for his technical precision and ability to peak for major championships. Injuries have presented challenges in recent years, but his experience and pedigree remain unmatched. Every appearance by the Olympic champion generates excitement among athletics fans, and Rome offers another chance for him to demonstrate the quality that made him one of the event’s all-time greats.
5. Keshorn Walcott (Trinidad and Tobago)
Keshorn Walcott made history when he became Olympic champion at London 2012, delivering one of the most memorable performances in javelin history. The Trinidad and Tobago athlete remains one of the sport’s most respected figures and continues to compete against younger rivals more than a decade after his Olympic triumph. Walcott’s longevity is a testament to his dedication and technical excellence. Even after years on the international circuit, he remains capable of producing big throws on important occasions. Rome gives fans another opportunity to watch one of the event’s most iconic athletes in action.
6. Curtis Thompson (United States)
Curtis Thompson has become the leading figure in American men’s javelin throwing. The US record holder has consistently pushed the boundaries of the event in a country where javelin traditionally receives less attention than track disciplines. Thompson’s powerful technique and competitive mindset have helped him establish himself as a regular contender on the international circuit. His performances in recent years have demonstrated that he can challenge many of the world’s top throwers. A strong outing in Rome would further strengthen his position among the leading athletes heading into the remainder of the season.
7. Jakub Vadlejch (Czech Republic)
Jakub Vadlejch is one of the most consistent javelin throwers of his generation. The Czech athlete has won Olympic and World Championship medals and has spent years competing at the highest level. Known for his calm demeanour and ability to produce big throws when it matters most, Vadlejch is a proven championship performer. His technical efficiency and reliability have made him a fixture among the world’s elite. Rome presents another opportunity for the Czech star to add to his impressive record and challenge for victory against a field packed with accomplished competitors.
8. Dawid Wegner (Poland)
Dawid Wegner represents the next generation of Polish javelin talent. The young thrower has steadily climbed the European rankings through a combination of strong performances and continued technical development. While still building experience at the highest level, Wegner has shown glimpses of significant potential and has begun competing more regularly against elite opposition. Events like the Rome Diamond League are invaluable for his progression, providing the chance to learn from some of the sport’s most accomplished athletes while testing his abilities in a world-class environment.
9. Julius Yego (Kenya)
Julius Yego’s story remains one of the most inspiring in athletics. Nicknamed the “YouTube Man” after teaching himself the event through online videos, Yego went on to become world champion and an Olympic silver medallist. The Kenyan transformed perceptions of African participation in throwing events and inspired a generation of athletes across the continent. Even years after his biggest successes, Yego continues to compete with passion and determination. His presence in Rome adds a unique dimension to the field and provides fans with the opportunity to watch one of athletics’ most remarkable success stories.
10. Giovanni Frattini (Italy)
Giovanni Frattini will carry home hopes into the competition as Italy’s representative in the field. The young Italian thrower continues to gain valuable experience against international opposition and has shown encouraging progress in recent seasons. Competing at the Stadio Olimpico in front of a supportive crowd will provide additional motivation as he takes on some of the biggest names in world javelin. While facing Olympic champions and world medallists is a significant challenge, the experience gained in Rome could prove crucial in Frattini’s continued development as an international-level athlete.
Indian long jump received a timely boost ahead of the upcoming competition season as national record holder Jeswin Aldrin and Federation Cup champion David P both cleared the coveted 8-metre mark at the Tamil Nadu State Trials.
Jeswin produced a best jump of 8.03m to secure the men’s long jump title, while David finished a close second with 8.02m. Although the performances will not count as official marks, they serve as an encouraging sign for two of India’s leading horizontal jumpers.
For Jeswin, the result is particularly significant. The 23-year-old has endured a difficult period over the past two years, battling injuries that disrupted his momentum after his breakthrough 2023 season. He underwent knee surgery and spent much of 2024 and early 2025 working his way back to full fitness.
His jump of 8.03m marks the first time he has crossed the 8-metre barrier in competition since his peak form, providing a major confidence boost as he looks to return to the international stage.
Jeswin remains India’s national record holder with a leap of 8.42m, achieved at the Indian Open Jumps Competition in Bellary in 2023. That mark not only broke the long-standing national record but also briefly placed him among the world’s leading long jumpers that season. He went on to represent India at both the World Championships and the Paris Olympics, though injuries prevented him from reproducing his best form on the global stage.
Meanwhile, David P continued his impressive rise. The Federation Cup 2025 champion demonstrated remarkable consistency, registering 8.02m in his third attempt before backing it up with another 8.00m jump in the sixth and final round.
The fact that two Indian jumpers exceeded 8 metres on the same day highlights the growing depth in the men’s long jump event. While the marks will not be officially recognized, they indicate that both athletes are moving in the right direction ahead of the national season and international qualification events.
With Jeswin rediscovering his rhythm and David continuing to build momentum, Indian athletics could have multiple contenders capable of challenging the 8-metre barrier consistently in the months ahead.
Birsa Munda Stadium, Ranchi | Federation Cup 2026 | May 25, 2026
He didn’t need to say a word. The phone wallpaper said it all.
After landing a season-best jump of 17.08m to comfortably clear the Commonwealth Games 2026 qualification standard at Federation Cup 2026, Praveen Chithravel held up his phone to the cameras — and on the screen was a Commonwealth Games medal. A quiet, powerful declaration of intent from India’s finest triple jumper. He knows what he wants. He knows what he missed. And he is coming back for it.
The Jump That Booked the Ticket
Praveen’s 17.08m was not the national record-challenging performance that his ability promises on his best day — his personal best of 17.37m remains the gold standard of Indian triple jump. But it was precisely what the moment required. Controlled, technically sound, and comfortably beyond the CWG qualification mark of 16.89m, the jump confirmed Praveen’s place at the Commonwealth Games and signalled that the peak of his 2026 season is still ahead of him.
That is perhaps the most reassuring aspect of this performance. Praveen jumped 17.08m without being at his absolute best — and he knows it. With the Commonwealth Games on the horizon and the international season ramping up, there is a bigger jump waiting somewhere in that runway approach.
The Wallpaper That Tells the Story
The moment after the jump was as telling as the jump itself. Praveen revealing his phone wallpaper — a Commonwealth Games medal — was a reminder of what happened in the last edition of the Games, where he finished fourth, agonisingly off the podium. In sport, fourth place is the loneliest position there is: close enough to touch the medals, far enough to watch them handed to someone else.
That near-miss has clearly not left him. If anything, it has sharpened his focus and fuelled what promises to be a season built around one defining goal — returning to the Commonwealth Games and finishing the job.
Peaking at the Right Time
Speaking to nnis Sports after his qualification jump, Praveen was measured and clear-eyed about his plans. The strategy for 2026 is deliberate — peak at the right time and deliver strong performances outside India. It is the approach of a mature athlete who understands that domestic championships serve a purpose, but that the real test lies on the international stage.
In that context, 17.08m at Federation Cup is exactly the right kind of performance — enough to qualify, enough to confirm form, but not enough to suggest he has left his best jump on a domestic runway.
What Comes Next
Praveen Chithravel has his Commonwealth Games qualification. He has his motivation framed on his phone screen. And he has a national record of 17.37m that demonstrates the distance he is capable of when everything clicks.
The last time he was at the Commonwealth Games, fourth place was the result. This time, he has made clear that a different outcome is the only acceptable one.
The medal on the wallpaper is not just a memory. It is a target.
