Dev Kumar Meena Sets New Pole Vault Record at FISU World University Games

In a stunning display of athleticism, Dev Kumar Meena has broken the men's pole vault record for the third time at the FISU World University Games in Germany. Achieving a personal best of 5.40 meters, Meena surpassed his previous record and secured his place in the finals. As the youngest national record holder in Indian athletics, his journey continues to inspire. With India already winning five medals at the event, including achievements in archery and tennis, the excitement builds for the upcoming finals. Read on to discover more about Meena's remarkable performance and India's success at the games.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 26, 2025, 02:06 IST

Record-Breaking Performance in Germany

Rhine-Ruhr, Germany - On July 25, India's Dev Kumar Meena achieved a remarkable feat by breaking the men's pole vault record for the third time during the qualifying rounds of the FISU World University Games.

Meena reached a personal best of 5.40 meters on his second attempt, surpassing his previous record of 5.35 meters, which he set earlier this year at the Federation Cup in Kochi, as reported by Olympics.com.

This marks the third occasion that the 20-year-old has set a new national pole vault record, having first claimed the title during the National Games this year with a jump of 5.32 meters, surpassing Subramani Siva's record of 5.31 meters from 2022.

As the youngest national record holder in Indian athletics, Meena, who also won a bronze medal at the Asian U20 Championships, showcased his talent in Group A of the qualifiers. He cleared heights of 5.05 meters and 5.25 meters before breaking the national record on his second attempt.

Ultimately, he finished fifth in the qualifiers, securing his place in the men's pole vault final scheduled for Sunday. A total of 12 athletes have advanced to the medal round.

India has already claimed five medals at the ongoing competition, including three medals from archery earlier in the day. Vaishnavi Adkar also earned a bronze in women's singles tennis on Thursday, while the Indian badminton team secured their bronze on July 20.