Tentoglou wins men's long jump gold ahead of Jamaican Pinnock

Miltiadis Tentoglou of Greece achieved a remarkable leap of 8.48 meters on Tuesday, successfully defending his title in the men's long jump and securing the first gold medal for his nation at the Paris Games.

Jamaican athlete Wayne Pinnock earned the silver medal with a jump of 8.36 meters, while Italy's Mattia Furlani took home the bronze with a distance of 8.34 meters.

The world champion displayed a serious demeanor throughout the competition, clinching victory with his second attempt. He only allowed himself a smile after embracing his team in the stands and wrapping himself in the Greek flag.

Tentoglou has now become only the second athlete in history to successfully defend his long jump title, following the legendary American Carl Lewis, who held the title from 1984 to 1996.

"This title is dedicated to my country. Greece is the birthplace of the Olympics, and I am proud to represent them," he stated.

Entering the Paris Games, Tentoglou was in exceptional form, having won ten out of eleven competitions this season, although he initially found himself in second place behind Furlani after a first attempt of 8.27 meters.

Before his winning jump, Tentoglou approached the runway with a serious expression, delivering a leap that elicited gasps from the audience.

He sought to improve his performance but managed only 8.24 meters on his third attempt, expressing frustration after landing at 8.36 meters on his fourth.

Ultimately, it was inconsequential, as Furlani was unable to surpass his initial jump, and Pinnock secured the silver with his second attempt, having previously finished second at the World Championships in Budapest.

Tentoglou expressed to reporters that he had aimed for a longer jump, describing his performance as merely "decent," despite the enthusiastic congratulations he received from Greece's leaders on social media.

"Mythical Miltos Tentoglou at the pinnacle of the world once again," wrote Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on the platform X.

President Katerina Sakellaropoulou remarked, "Tentoglou has rightfully earned his place among the elite long jump athletes."