Pedro Pablo Pichardo, a Cuban-born athlete now representing Portugal, and Jordan Díaz, competing for Spain, stole the spotlight in the men's triple jump qualifications, showcasing intense rivalry ahead of the final at the European Athletics Championships in Rome, Italy.
Pichardo, 30, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion, and Díaz, 23, dominated the stage with ease, posting marks of 17.48 and 17.52 meters respectively, well ahead of the other competitors.
In an interview with Marca, the younger Díaz, a Havana native with exceptional physical abilities, declared, "He is the champion, and I am the newcomer here to take his title. That's how it is."
The Santiago-born Pichardo, on the other hand, took a more competitive stance in the mixed zone of the sports facility. In response to Ismael Pérez from Runner's magazine, who reminded him that it's been a while since he surpassed the 18-meter mark, the world champion retorted defiantly, "What's your name? Wait for me here on Tuesday night, and I'll answer you."
The showdown is undoubtedly set less than two months before the start of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, marking the debut of young Díaz under the five rings, currently trained by his compatriot Iván Pedroso, a living legend in long jump.
Pedroso, the Sydney 2000 champion and multiple world champion both indoors and outdoors, is one of the most successful coaches in athletics. He also coaches the stellar Venezuelan Yulimar Rojas, the Spanish Ana Peleteiro, and his fellow countryman Juan Miguel Echevarría.
The European "field and track" festival, running from June 7 to 12, notably misses another Cuban star in men's triple jump representing Italy: Andy Díaz, who ranks among the world's top leaders.
Key Insights on the European Athletics Championships Triple Jump
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers about the intense rivalry and standout performances in the men's triple jump qualifications at the European Athletics Championships.
Who are the main competitors in the men's triple jump at the European Athletics Championships?
The key competitors are Pedro Pablo Pichardo, representing Portugal, and Jordan Díaz, representing Spain.
What were the qualifying marks for Pichardo and Díaz?
Pedro Pablo Pichardo posted a mark of 17.48 meters, while Jordan Díaz achieved 17.52 meters.
Who is training Jordan Díaz?
Jordan Díaz is currently trained by Iván Pedroso, a legendary figure in long jump.
Which other notable athletes does Iván Pedroso coach?
Iván Pedroso also coaches Yulimar Rojas from Venezuela, Ana Peleteiro from Spain, and Juan Miguel Echevarría from Cuba.