An American track and field athlete specializing in the long jump and triple jump, holding multiple Olympic and World Championship medals. Known for his impressive jumping abilities and consistency on the global stage.
Will Claye is a household name in the world of track and field, particularly in the triple jump and long jump events. The American athlete of Sierra Leonean descent has made a mark with his impressive medals haul, including a bronze medal in the 2011 World Championships, gold medals in the 2012 and 2018 IAAF World Indoor Championships, and Olympic medals in the 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
Born on June 13, 1991, in Phoenix, Arizona, Claye showed early promise in athletics, winning the Arizona Interscholastic Association high school championship in the triple jump twice. He set a new state record of over 50 feet during his time at Mountain Pointe High School. His exceptional talent earned him a spot on the 2008 USA Today's All-USA Team in both jumps.
Claye enrolled early at the University of Oklahoma, where he won the 2009 NCAA Men's Outdoor Track and Field Championship in the triple jump on his 18th birthday, setting a new American junior record of 56 ft 4.75 in (17.19 m). However, his performance dropped off due to stress fractures in his back and leg during his second year at Oklahoma. He transferred to the University of Florida, where he joined forces with Christian Taylor and trained under legendary jumps coach Dick Booth.
Under Coach Booth's guidance, Claye's performances soared, and he won the national title in the triple jump and finished runner-up in the long jump at the 2011 NCAA Indoor National Championship. This cemented Florida's victory in the NCAA Indoor National Championship that year.
Claye's Olympic debut at the 2012 Summer Olympics was nothing short of remarkable, as he won a bronze medal in the long jump and a silver medal in the triple jump. Four years later, he repeated his silver medal performance in the triple jump.
Claye's personal best of 18.14 m (59 ft 6 in), set at the Jim Bush Southern California USATF Championships in Long Beach on June 29, 2019, ranks him as the No. 4 triple jumper of all time. His impressive resume has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple World Championships and Olympic medals.
In a surprising turn, Claye ventured into the music world, recording the rap song "IDGAF" with rapper YG. This unexpected foray into the music industry showcased his multifaceted personality and talent beyond athletics.
Will Claye's remarkable achievements have inspired a new generation of athletes, particularly in the triple jump and long jump events. His dedication, perseverance, and passion for his craft have made him a role model for young athletes around the world.
Will Claye's legacy extends beyond his impressive medal tally. He has left an indelible mark on the world of track and field, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.
35 Years Old
American triple jumper who won Olympic gold and silver medals, setting multiple world records in the process.
42 Years Old
American decathlete who won Olympic silver and gold medals, setting multiple records in the process. Known for his exceptional all-around athletic abilities.
46 Years Old
An American Olympic gold medalist and world champion in the decathlon, known for his exceptional athleticism and dominance in the sport.
38 Years Old
A world-class athlete who won Olympic gold medals and set multiple world records in the decathlon, a grueling 10-event competition that requires exceptional endurance, strength, and agility.
51 Years Old
Czech athlete who excelled in decathlon and high jump, winning Olympic medals and setting world records. Known for his impressive athleticism and versatility in multiple track and field events.
42 Years Old
Bahamian athlete who won a bronze medal in high jump at the 2012 World Indoor Championships, setting a national record.
