Emmanouil Karalis Withdraws from Pole Vault at European Team Championships

The biggest star in pole vaulting at the European Team Championships was ready to jump. Suddenly, Emmanouil Karalis withdrew from the competition.

– He looks quite serious, says SVT expert Alhaji Jeng.

In the absence of Armand Duplantis, Emmanouil Karalis, 25, was the clear standout in the lineup at the European Team Championships in Madrid.

However, the bronze medalist from the Paris Olympics did not compete.

Just after the nations lined up for the presentation, the Greek packed up his pole vault bag, thanked the audience, and stepped aside.

– He looks quite serious, says SVT expert Alhaji Jeng.

“I Didn't Want to Take Any Risks”

Later on Thursday, Emmanouil Karalis admitted he felt "discomfort" and did not want to take any risks after consulting with his coaches.

– I wanted to compete, but I felt some discomfort and couldn't continue. It hurts a lot that I can't help the national team – a big sorry to everyone. In sports, there are both good and bad days. It's very tough for me. The problem is not serious, but I didn't want to take any risks, he says according to the Greek Gazzetta.

Linus Jönsson competed for Sweden, earning 4.5 points for the Swedish athletics team. On the women's side, Sandra Alvero finished tenth, adding another seven points.