Swedish pole vault sensation Armand “Mondo” Duplantis has recently unveiled his favorite color through a promotional campaign for the inaugural Ultimate Championship. The two-time Olympic gold medalist collaborated with World Athletics to release “Gold,” the event’s official anthem, setting the stage for a competition with a remarkable $10 million prize pool.
Scheduled to take place in Budapest from September 11 to 13, the Ultimate Championship will feature top athletes, including Olympic, world, and Diamond League champions, across three evening sessions. Winners of individual events will walk away with a hefty $150,000.
Duplantis, aged 26, has ventured into the music scene for some time, having previously launched his debut single, “Bop,” in 2025. The pole vault world-record holder shared his aspiration of clinching a Grammy award someday.
The track “Gold,” co-written by Duplantis alongside Carl Silvergran and Oscar Chase, and produced by Chase, embodies the essence of representing a cause larger than oneself. Duplantis expressed his belief that both music and sports unite people in unique ways, with “Gold” encapsulating this sentiment.
Incorporating archival footage of Duplantis as a young athlete, the accompanying music video for “Gold” was filmed in Budapest. The Louisiana native has emphasized the therapeutic value of music in his life, providing a welcome respite from the demands of elite sports.
During the Ultimate Championship, “Gold” will enhance the event experience by connecting fans globally through broadcast integration. Duplantis is set to perform the anthem live at the event’s conclusion, marking a significant moment for both sports and music enthusiasts.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe praised the Ultimate Championship’s focus on showcasing the multifaceted talents of top athletes like Duplantis, underscoring the event’s commitment to celebrating athletic prowess on and off the field. The championship is slated to become a biennial fixture in the sporting calendar.