Rohler cracks 90m again, Stefanidi raises world lead to 4.85m in Rome – IAAF Diamond League

Power – it was on display everywhere you looked at the IAAF Diamond League meeting in Rome on Thursday night (8). Whether in the booming right arm of Thomas Rohler, the elastic spring of pole vaulter Ekaterini Stefanidi or the supreme pace of sprinters Dafne Schippers and Andre De Grasse, it manifested itself in every way imaginable at the Golden Gala Pietro Mennea.

In the men’s javelin, Rohler once again proved that old adage that he who laughs last laughs best. The German took the lead in the second round with 87.05m, at which point he looked to have the competition at his mercy.

Until, that is, his compatriot Johannes Vetter jogged to the line in the fifth round and unleashed a throw of 88.15m to take the lead. Rohler could only follow up with 85.54m, leaving him one last chance to produce some magic in the final round, which he duly achieved.

His 90.06m throw gave him the win ahead of Vetter (88.15m) and Keshorn Walcott, who took third with 86.61m.