Qatari athlete Mutaz Essa Barshim and Italian athlete Gianmarco Tamberi created one of the most beautiful moments at the Tokyo Olympics by agreeing to share the gold medal in the men's high jump competition. After each athlete failed three attempts, the referee offered them the chance to compete with "one jump" to determine the winner. Barshim asked the referee if both could receive "gold medals," and upon receiving confirmation, both athletes erupted in joy at winning Olympic gold.
Both the Qatari and the Italian successfully jumped a height of 2.37 meters without any failed attempts but could not clear 2.39 meters. Barshim stated that Tamberi is one of his "dearest friends" both on and off the field, while Tamberi expressed disbelief at the moment, saying, "Especially sharing gold with a friend is something more beautiful... it’s magical."
The victory is considered an achievement for both athletes. Barshim earned his country's second gold medal during the Tokyo Olympics and in the history of Qatari Olympic competitions. Tamberi, on the other hand, returned from an ankle injury and during his celebration of the gold medal, he lifted the cast that had been on his leg during recovery, stating that he was "satisfied just to return to competition, but winning gold is wonderful."
