Lithuanian Discus Thrower Shatters 38-Year-Old World Record
Mykolas Alekna, the 21-year-old Lithuanian discus thrower, has shattered the longest-standing men’s world record in track and field, eclipsing a mark that had stood for 38 years.
Alekna’s record-breaking throw of 74.35m came at the Oklahoma Throws Series World Invitational meet on Sunday. It surpassed the previous record of 74.08m set by East German Jurgen Schult in 1986.
Alekna’s achievement is particularly remarkable given that he is still in the early stages of his career. He is the son of Virgilijus Alekna, a two-time Olympic and world champion discus thrower.
Mykolas Alekna’s rise to the top has been rapid. He won the European and world U-20 championships in 2021 and went on to win gold at the European Championships and silver at the World Championships in 2022.
Alekna’s progression has been consistent, with his season bests improving significantly over the past few years. He credits his father as his “big idol” and says that fishing is his most relaxing getaway from his profession.
Alekna’s record-breaking throw has sent shockwaves through the world of athletics. He is now a serious contender for gold at the Paris Olympics in 2024.