Flash Interviews: Men's High Jump Final

Gold - Donald THOMAS, BAH

When you show up, than you show up in great shape, so I m not surprised I won. I always want to be on top. I took it like everyday competition. And it was a nice one, I hope people in Bahamas will celebrate even more than me. If somebody would clear 2.37 I would do the same, believe me. I never doubt in myself. I paid attention to Russians and Swedish jumpers. I have only 8 months of high jump training behind me. My first competition last year was 2.24 without spikes. No, I do not know personally Troy Kemp, our world champion from 1995. Of course I know what he did. Olympics is next target and after more training and learning the event the goal could be also the world record.

Silver - Yaroslav RYBAKOV, RUS

Difficult question whether I am satisfied. From one point of course because I have troubles with my injured right knee, I did not jump too much before the champs. On the other hand it is my fifth silver from world championships so I really wanted the gold. I did what I was able to do. The knee hurted, I was even thinking after waking-up whether I will be able jump at all. Now the doctors are recommending a surgery. We will see. I want compete indoors so I will make the decision soon. I was thinking that something in the region 2.35-2.37 will be enough for a medal.

Bronze - Kyriakos IOANNOU, CYP

Football is the number one sport in Cyprus and I can't compare myself yet to tennis player Marcos Baghdatis, but this is a big success for me and my country. To do a PB and get a medal at the world championships is a dream come true. It is quite unexpected and shows that anyone can do something in sport. Just believe in yourself.