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Ukrainian high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh, the world record holder, has captured Olympic gold at the Stade de France with her unique habit of lying under a green bedroll between jumps. This intriguing method has sparked curiosity and admiration worldwide.Mahuchikh's unusual routine, which involves counting numbers or watching clouds while lying down, has become a signature part of her preparation. She began this practice in 2018 after winning the Youth Olympic Games. "I feel comfortable when I lay and sometimes I can watch the clouds," she explained to TIME Magazine. "It's like, relax, [and] not think about that I'm at [the] stadium."Her coach, Serhii Stepanov, believes the bedroll helps prevent blood from pooling in her legs. Mahuchikh always carries a yoga mat, sleeping bag, and spare socks to competitions, or wears a hoodie. She recommends this approach for comfort in various weather conditions."It's really difficult [to wear spikes]," she said in a press conference. "But I advise all girls to have this mat and blanket because it's really comfortable to lay on in different weather. When it's raining, it's OK. It never gets hot because it's a camping blanket."Beyond her unique relaxation technique, Mahuchikh's victory holds deep emotional significance. She fled Ukraine due to the ongoing Russian invasion, which has claimed the lives of nearly 500 Ukrainian athletes. "Almost 500 sportsmen have died in this war," she said. "They will never compete. They will never celebrate. They will never fill this atmosphere. I'm happy with the gold medal. It's really for all of them."Australia's Nicola Olyslagers won the silver medal in the high jump, while Eleanor Patterson of Australia and Ukraine's Iryna Gerashchenko shared the bronze.Mahuchikh's gold medal is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the power of finding comfort in unconventional ways. Her unique bedroll routine has not only helped her achieve Olympic glory but has also inspired countless others to embrace their own unique paths to success.

World champion high jumper Gianmarco Tamberi's Paris Olympics debut was marred by a mishap when he lost his wedding ring in the Seine river during the opening ceremony. The Italian flag-bearer's ring slipped off his finger as he enthusiastically waved the Italian tricolour during the boat parade in the Parisian rain on Friday.Tamberi, known for his charismatic personality, took to Instagram to apologize to his wife, Chiara Bontempi Tamberi, in a heartfelt post. "I'm sorry, my love, I'm so sorry," he wrote, blaming "too much water, too many kilos lost in the last few months or maybe the irrepressible enthusiasm of what we were doing. Probably all three."The 32-year-old high jumper, who famously shared Olympic gold in Tokyo three years ago with Qatari friend and rival Mutaz Barshim, has a reputation as something of a showman. He is known for leaving one half of his face unshaved, adding to his unique persona.Tamberi's ring mishap has sparked a wave of sympathy and amusement on social media, with many users sharing their own stories of lost wedding rings. The incident has also highlighted the importance of cherishing the special moments in life, even amidst the excitement and spectacle of a major sporting event.Despite the setback, Tamberi remains focused on his Olympic aspirations. He is determined to add to his medal collection and make his country proud. His unwavering spirit and infectious enthusiasm are sure to inspire his fellow athletes and fans alike.

Paris Games-bound high jumper Sarvesh Kushare has received invaluable advice from Olympic and world champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra: "Just focus on training and don't get scared by the fame of the opponents." This guidance has boosted Kushare's confidence, especially after a period of uncertainty about his Olympic qualification.Kushare's journey to the Olympics has been remarkable. From practicing on a makeshift mat made of fodder to becoming the first Indian high jumper to qualify for the Games, he has overcome numerous challenges. His personal best of 2.27m and season's best of 2.25m make it realistic for him to reach the final round in Paris.Despite his relatively small stature, Kushare is determined to compete with the best. "It is only my height that is small, but I am also very strong from within," he said. "There is no fear of seeing my opponent's personality. It is important to be in top form at the right time and have faith in your preparation."Kushare's training regimen in Poland includes gym work, speed training, strength training, and recovery sessions. He also incorporates yoga and meditation into his routine for mental preparation. "I talk to a sports psychologist regularly for mental preparation," he said. "He tells me how to deal with pressure and how to keep myself mentally fresh."Kushare's Olympic debut will be a significant moment for Indian athletics. He hopes to make it to the finals and bring pride to his country. "We also want to be like him (Chopra) and bring pride to the country," he said.

Ukraine's Yaroslava Mahuchikh has etched her name into the annals of track and field history by setting a new world record in the women's high jump at the Diamond League meet in Paris. With just three weeks to go before the Paris Olympics, Mahuchikh soared over the bar at an astonishing height of 2.10 meters, eclipsing the previous record of 2.09 meters set by Bulgaria's Stefka Kostadinova in 1987.Mahuchikh's record-breaking feat was a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. Despite facing the horrors of war in her native Ukraine, she has remained focused on her athletic pursuits. Her journey to the top has been marked by countless sacrifices, including a six-day car journey to Belgrade in 2022 to compete in the World Indoor Championships.The 22-year-old Ukrainian has been in scintillating form this season, claiming world indoor silver in Glasgow in March. Her victory in Paris is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it has propelled her into the spotlight as one of the favorites for the Olympic gold medal.Mahuchikh's record-setting jump was met with thunderous applause from the packed-out crowd at the Stade Charlety. She sprinted arms held aloft in triumph, embracing her coaching team in a moment of pure joy. "It was really incredible, even more so because I only jumped 2.07 at my second attempt, and it was already my personal best," she said.Mahuchikh's achievement has not only inspired her fellow Ukrainians but has also sent shockwaves through the world of track and field. Her record-breaking performance is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized.