Western Australian star Kurtis Marschall secured Australia’s first medal at the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships, soaring to bronze in the men’s pole vault.

Marschall’s bronze-winning effort was all the more impressive as it equalled his personal best of 5.95m, previously clearing the mark in Budapest. Reinforcing his reputation as one of the most consistent vaulters in the sport, he delivered when it mattered, a statement of both talent and composure. 

“Bronze is pretty much as good as gold for me, I’ll take that any day of the week,” Marshall said via the Australian Athletics on X. 

Marschall’s place on the podium ultimately came down to the final moments of the competition. After his jump, the Australian had to wait as American star Sam Kendricks attempted his last vault. 

Only a successful clearance would have edged Marschall out of bronze contention, but when Kendricks was unable to make the height, Marschall’s medal was confirmed. A reward for a clutch performance under pressure. 

Competing against the world’s best was an “awesome feeling”, as Marschall expressed immense pride in his performance.

“Jumping against some of the best guys in the world, being in the fight the whole time and tussling with Sam,” he said.

Marschall’s breakthrough accomplishment sets the tone for the other competing Australian’s, with more medal chances still to come in Tokyo.

When Olympic silver medallist Jessica Hull (NSW) steps onto the track for today’s Women’s 1500m Final, the spotlight will be firmly on her as she chases her fourth global medal. 

Photo: by Filip Bossuyt found HERE and used under a Creative Commons licence. The image has not been modified.