Bulgarian high jumper who holds the world record in the women's high jump, a feat that has stood for over three decades. She won Olympic and World Championship titles, dominating the sport in the 1980s and 1990s.
Stefka Kostadinova, born on March 25, 1965, is an iconic Bulgarian athlete renowned for her groundbreaking achievements in the high jump, boasting a world record of 2.09 meters that has stood the test of time since 1987. This remarkable feat, along with her numerous championship titles, solidifies her position as one of the greatest high jumpers in the history of athletics.
Kostadinova's affinity for athletics began at a young age, when she attended a specialist sports school in her native Plovdiv, Bulgaria. It wasn't until a chance encounter at a Year Six athletics meet in Sofia, however, that she discovered her true passion for high jump. This serendipitous moment, which she recalls as unforgettable, set her on the path to greatness.
Kostadinova's impressive résumé is replete with accolades, including two World Championships (1987 and 1995), five World Indoor Championships (1985, 1987, 1988, 1993, and 1997), and a coveted Olympic gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Games. Her dominance in the high jump is underscored by her remarkable record of clearing the 2.00-meter mark 197 times.
In 1995, Kostadinova faced a unique challenge when she gave birth to her son, Nikolay, just months before winning the gold medal at the World Championships. This remarkable display of resilience and determination serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft. Her personal life has not been without its challenges, however, as she divorced her husband and coach, Nikolay Petrov, in 1999, the same year she officially retired from professional athletics.
Stefka Kostadinova's influence extends far beyond her impressive athletic achievements. As the president of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee since 2005, she continues to inspire future generations of athletes. Her unwavering dedication to the sport has left an indelible mark on the world of athletics, cementing her status as a true legend in the high jump.
Today, Kostadinova's world record remains one of the oldest in modern athletics, a testament to her enduring legacy and a reminder of the incredible heights she achieved during her remarkable career.
62 Years Old
A German athlete who won the 1992 Olympic gold medal in the high jump, setting a world record of 2.05 meters that still stands today.
58 Years Old
Ukrainian high jumper who won Olympic bronze and silver medals, setting multiple national records throughout her career.
