Budapest — American pole vault star Katie Moon secured her third consecutive World Championships gold medal, defeating teammate Sandi Morris in a thrilling final that highlighted the dominance of U.S. athletes in women’s pole vault.
Moon, the reigning Olympic champion, cleared 4.90 meters to clinch her historic three-peat, while Morris, a two-time World Championships silver medalist, finished just behind with a best of 4.85 meters. The victory cements Moon’s place among the greatest pole vaulters in history.
“I’m so proud to be able to come out here and defend my title again,” Moon said after the win. “It’s always special competing alongside Sandi — she pushes me to be my best.”
The showdown between the American teammates was highly anticipated. Both athletes consistently rank among the world’s top performers, and their rivalry has elevated the event’s global profile.
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American Pole Vault Dominance
The U.S. has long been a powerhouse in pole vault, and Moon’s victory continues that tradition. With her third World Championships crown, she joins the ranks of legends who have achieved multiple global titles in the event.
Sandi Morris, though disappointed, praised Moon’s performance:
“Katie was incredible tonight. We always push each other, and I know I wouldn’t be at this level without her.”
Road to Paris 2028
With this victory, Moon strengthens her momentum ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where she will aim to defend her Olympic crown on home soil.
For now, her World Championships three-peat stands as one of the biggest achievements of her career and a defining moment in the sport.