Greek long jump star Miltos Tentoglou has achieved the best jump in the world so far this year, soaring 8.46 metres at the European Team Championships in Madrid. The jump, which came in his second attempt, also broke the championship record of 8.38 metres — a mark he himself had set in 2021.

The Olympic gold medallist delivered a dominant performance, securing first place in the event and earning 16 crucial points for Greece in their campaign to remain in the competition’s top category. Tentoglou, widely considered the world’s best long jumper, registered the winning mark despite taking off 14cm behind the board — a detail that prompted a frustrated reaction when he emerged from the sandpit.

His first jump of the day was 8.15m, but he followed it with the world-topping 8.46m leap in his second attempt. After a foul on his third jump, Tentoglou landed another massive effort of 8.44m in the fourth round. He chose to forgo his final two attempts.

Sweden’s Thobias Montler finished second with a best of 8.08m, and Italy’s Mattia Furlani placed third at 8.07m.

Tentoglou’s personal best remains 8.65m, achieved earlier this year at the European Athletics Championships in Rome.

Speaking to Greek broadcaster ERT after the event, Tentoglou said he had entered the competition with the goal of delivering a commanding performance.

“I didn’t just want to win today — I wanted to destroy them, to show a strong image for the team. I wanted to beat them by 40 points, and I did,” he said.

He also reflected on the extreme conditions in Madrid, where temperatures reached 38°C, describing them as “difficult but ideal for high performance,” provided energy was well managed.

“The heat is almost unbearable, but it helps performance if you handle it well. I could’ve jumped further — I lost some power and missed a good landing on the 8.44m attempt,” he said.

Looking ahead, Tentoglou said he plans to compete in Athens next week, followed by a Diamond League event, the Greek national championships, and the Balkan Championships — also to be held in Greece.

“I’ll be at my best for the Balkan Championships. That’s where a national record could happen. Today, I couldn’t go for it — maybe something over 8.50, yes, but not the record.”

Tentoglou’s performance continues to build momentum as he prepares for a packed competition schedule leading up to the Paris Olympics.