Sarvesh becomes first Indian high jumper to finish in top-three of Diamond League
Sarvesh Kushare has become the first Indian high jumper to reach a Diamond League podium, finishing third in Monaco. The 31-year-old athlete, who comes from a humble farming background, cleared 2.26m to secure his historic result.
Why it matters
This achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian athletics on the global stage, highlighting the rise of non-traditional sports in the country.
National record holder Sarvesh Kushare scripted history by becoming the first Indian high jumper to finish on the podium at a Diamond League meet, claiming third place on his debut in Monaco and joining an exclusive four-member club of Indian achievers.
The 31-year-old Kushare sailed over 2.26m to take the third spot in a star-studded field Friday (July 10, 2026) night and grabbed a remarkable personal milestone. He was competing just two weeks after setting a national record of 2.31m while winning gold at the National Inter-State Championships in Bhubaneswar last month.
He became only the fourth Indian to finish in the top three of a Diamond League event after javelin throw superstar Neeraj Chopra (13 times since 2022), long jumper Murali Sreeshankar (once in 2023) and former discus thrower Vikas Gowda (on two occasions in 2015).
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