Armand “Mondo” Duplantis is no stranger to breaking records and turning heads in the world of track and field. The Swedish-American pole vaulter has been a dominant force, clinching his third consecutive World Championship title in 2024 and setting his seventh world record in Eugene, Oregon, by clearing an astounding 6.23 meters. His achievements have made him one of the most decorated athletes in the sport’s history.

Now, as the 2025 indoor season unfolds, Duplantis has announced a scaled-back schedule that has left fans and competitors buzzing. Known for his packed calendar and frequent European appearances, this year’s itinerary marks a dramatic shift, raising questions about his long-term goals and competitive priorities.

 Mondo’s slimmed-down season leaves Europe out in the cold

Duplantis has officially ruled out competing in two major European events this season: the Copernicus Cup in Toruń, Poland, on February 16, and the European Indoor Championships in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, in March. Historically, these competitions have been staples of his indoor calendar, and his absence has left the European track scene feeling the void.

So, his revised schedule still has him tied up with four major events: Berlin in Germany, Clermont-Ferrand in France, Uppsala in Sweden, and of course, the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China. But you know, it’s pretty obvious that Europe isn’t really the main focus anymore. This decision kinda makes sense when you think about it; he is really zeroing in on the big international competitions. But let’s be real, we have all been thinking about the World Indoor Championships for a long time since they’ve been moved and delayed so many times. Now, it is time!

Critics and fans alike are still trying to guess why he has made this decision. Some say it is because of his extensive training and recovery to make sure he performs at his best in Nanjing. Some have theorized that it’s part of a larger plan for career longevity, in which he does not wear himself down through a fully loaded European season. The change in approach has sparked a debate: is it the hallmark of quality over quantity, or could it be representative of something deeper—a sea change in the way elite athletes plan their seasons?

 Strategic focus or a new chapter for Mondo?

Duplantis’ decision to scale back his indoor season has prompted speculation about the reasons behind this recalibration. At 25 years old, Mondo is at the peak of his career, yet his laser focus on the World Indoor Championships suggests a meticulous approach to preserving his dominance on the global stage. One significant factor might be the challenges of balancing an intense competition schedule with recovery. Athletes of Duplantis’ caliber are increasingly opting for leaner calendars to avoid burnout and potential injuries. This shift also aligns with a growing trend in professional sports, where fewer but more impactful appearances are becoming the norm.

Another possibility is Duplantis’ desire to maintain his reputation as a showman. By concentrating on fewer events, he ensures that each performance carries weight, drawing maximum attention to his record-breaking feats. For instance, his selection of Clermont-Ferrand and Uppsala—events tied closely to his family and personal legacy—underscores the emotional and strategic significance of his schedule. As the indoor season progresses, Duplantis’ absence from Europe might be felt more keenly than expected. His decision could reshape how European events attract top-tier athletes, forcing organizers to rethink incentives and scheduling to accommodate the evolving priorities of track and field’s elite stars.