One of Duplanti's main rivals in pole vault, Sam Kendricks, has tested positive for covid-19 and thus misses the Olympics.

Now the Swede is commenting on the message.

- It is difficult to react to it, because it still does not feel completely real.

An hour ago, I was still set on a real fight with Sam.

He was one of my biggest rivals and one who would push me forward in the final, says Duplantis to TT.

The news that Kendricks can not compete came during Thursday morning.

- I'm a little shocked, I can not really believe it, says Armand Duplantis.

Have not been in contact

Armand Duplantis is a close friend of the American but says he has not been in contact with Sam.

But it could have been different.

- I have not been in contact with Sam, so it's a good thing anyway.

But it's just scary, Duplantis tells TT.

Duplantis tells TT that he was about to meet Kendricks yesterday, but that a call from his girlfriend did not happen.

- I was lucky there, says Mondo.

The text is updated

ARCHIVE: Exclusive meeting with the pole vault trio

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Duplantis, Kendricks and Lavillenie during the competition in Clermont-Ferrand Photo: SVT