The young Cuban triple jumper Jordan Díaz didn't hesitate to dedicate his Olympic gold medal, won this Friday, first and foremost to his family, especially his parents. "I remember my family, whom I haven't seen in three years. I see them through video calls, but not physically," the Cuban athlete responded to a question in a press conference about what came to his mind first after winning and to whom he dedicated his triumph.
Following this initial dedication, Díaz expressed gratitude to his training group, stating that they have been like family and a source of stability since he has been in Spain. He also extended his appreciation to all Spaniards who have believed in him and supported him.
When asked by another journalist about the hardship of not being able to share his victory with his family in person, the Cuban athlete returned to the topic. "In the end, all this sacrifice pushes you to improve, to keep being a better athlete and person. I called my parents and saw that they were super happy; I don't need anything else. My role here is to make my family happy," he concluded.
Although he couldn't hug his parents this Friday, upon arriving at Casa España, the meeting point for the Spanish delegation, the Cuban triple jumper was surprised to embrace his aunt after four years apart. In addition to reuniting with family, the Cuban-born athlete was cheered by journalists and members of the Spanish delegation to the Olympic Games.
Jordan Díaz, only 23 years old, dethroned fellow Cuban Pedro Pablo Pichardo (17.84 meters), who competed for Portugal and was the reigning Olympic champion, with a jump of 17.86 meters. Another Cuban, Andy Díaz, who competed for Italy, took bronze with a jump of 17.64 meters.
It was a remarkable occurrence that three Cuban-born triple jumpers occupied the podium, yet none represented their home country—a stark representation of a nation bleeding in all aspects. The representative from the Caribbean island, Lázaro Martínez, had to settle for eighth place in the final with a jump of 17.34 meters.
The Most Daring Leap of Jordan Díaz
In 2021, Jordan Díaz decided to forgo competing in the Tokyo Olympics by leaving the Cuban team during a training tour in Spain. Many were surprised by his decision, as it was not an easy one. However, the young triple jumper had a clear plan that involved waiting and saving his strength to shine in Paris 2024.
With patience, he waited to be naturalized as a Spanish citizen and chose his partner in this journey: his compatriot and former long jumper Iván Pedroso, now considered the world's best triple jump coach. After completing the naturalization process in 2022, everything went uphill, culminating a few weeks ago when he showcased his immense talent by achieving the third-best record in history: 18.18 meters at the European Athletics Championships.
On June 11, the Havana-born athlete achieved the best result of the current season and came within 11 centimeters of the world record held by Briton Jonathan Edwards. The historic classification stands as follows: Jonathan Edwards (18.29), American Christian Taylor (18.21), and Díaz, who in his debut representing Spain, claimed the title of the top favorite for the Paris Games.
Jordan Díaz's Olympic Journey and Family Connection
Below are some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding Jordan Díaz's Olympic journey and his connection to his family in Cuba.
Why did Jordan Díaz dedicate his gold medal to his family?
Jordan Díaz dedicated his gold medal to his family because he hasn't seen them physically in three years, and their happiness and support have been crucial to him.
Who is Jordan Díaz's coach?
Jordan Díaz's coach is Iván Pedroso, a former long jumper and currently considered the best triple jump coach in the world.
When did Jordan Díaz achieve one of the best records in triple jump history?
Jordan Díaz achieved one of the best records in triple jump history with a jump of 18.18 meters at the European Athletics Championships in 2022.