Italian high jumper pulls springs from shoes after European championship win

Italian high jumper Gianmarco Tamberi wins gold with a unique celebration involving springs in his shoe, showcasing his joyful personality.

Gianmarco Tamberi is a standout high jumper in the world of track and field, known not only for his incredible athletic abilities but also for his charming personality. One of the most memorable moments of the 2020 Summer Olympics was when Tamberi and Mutaz Essa Barshim of Qatar decided to share the gold medal in the high jump event, rather than competing in a jump-off to determine a single winner. Tamberi's jump of 2.34 meters was enough to secure him the gold at the European Athletics Championships.

What sets Tamberi apart from other athletes is his fearless and carefree attitude towards competition. He arrived at the track looking like a character from a post-apocalyptic TV show, and after his winning jump, he joyfully removed his shoe to reveal tiny springs inside, causing a burst of laughter from the Italian track announcer. Tamberi's exuberant celebration, reminiscent of NFL player Joe Horn's iconic move, was planned well in advance and showcased his unique and playful approach to the sport.

In a world where most track and field celebrations are predictable and lack originality, Tamberi's spontaneous and lighthearted antics bring a breath of fresh air. His ability to perform at the highest level while maintaining a sense of fun and joy is truly admirable. As we look ahead to the upcoming Olympics in Paris, we can only imagine what Tamberi has in store for us next. Get ready for more high-flying jumps and entertaining celebrations from this Italian high jump sensation.