Swedish athlete Armand “Mondo” Duplantis has collaborated with World Athletics to release a new song titled “Gold” in anticipation of the inaugural Ultimate Championship. The upcoming event, set to take place in Budapest from September 11-13, will feature elite athletes from Olympic, world, and Diamond League competitions across three evening sessions. Winners of individual events stand to earn $150,000 in prize money from the total $10 million fund.
Duplantis, a two-time Olympic champion and world-record holder in pole vault, shared that music has been a passion of his for years. His first single, “Bop,” was released in 2025, and he aspires to one day win a Grammy award. The anthem “Gold,” co-written by Duplantis with Carl Silvergran and Oscar Chase, delivers a message of representing something larger than oneself, echoing the spirit of unity found in both music and sports.
The music video for “Gold,” featuring archival footage of Duplantis as a young athlete, was filmed in Budapest. Duplantis, who hails from Louisiana, views music as a form of therapy and a welcome diversion from the demands of competitive sports. The Ultimate Championship plans to integrate “Gold” into its broadcast and live-event experience, connecting fans worldwide and enhancing the overall atmosphere of the competition.
In a statement, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe expressed excitement about Duplantis being the creative force behind the Ultimate Anthem, emphasizing the event’s focus on showcasing the multifaceted talents and interests of top athletes. The Ultimate Championship is slated to be held every two years, promising to provide a platform for athletes to shine both on and off the track.