Polina Knoroz

Happy birthday to Russia’s pole vault star Polina Knoroz — and here is the simplest way to say what kind of year she’s having: no woman on Earth has vaulted higher in 2026. In June, Polina cleared a personal-best 4.87m to win the Day of Jumps in Moscow, a mark officially ratified into World Athletics’ season top list. Two weeks later at the Russian Cup in Cheboksary she went higher still — 4.91m, on her first attempt — the best vault in the world this year, indoors or out.

A five-time Russian champion and Master of Sport of International Class, Polina has been open about her two goals, in order: five meters first, then the world record. At 4.91 and climbing, the first one is no longer a dream — it’s a scheduling question. Birthdays are for wishes, but Polina’s are the kind you clear, not blow out.

Her Platform: ambassador for Discover Fitness.

С днём рождения, Полина! Пусть в этом году покорятся заветные пять метров! 🎂🎁🎉🫶🫶🇷🇺