UPDATE: Montenegro’s star high jumper, Maria Vukovic, has made a stunning comeback, soaring to a height of 194 centimeters in Beograd on February 5, 2026. This remarkable achievement comes just after a serious injury sidelined her during the indoor season preparations, proving her resilience and determination.
The 2022 and 2023 Montenegro athlete of the year, Vukovic faced a devastating setback when she fractured her fifth metatarsal during training in Athens. Forced to miss the entire indoor season, she expressed her disappointment but remained optimistic about her recovery, stating, “I hope to start again soon.” Early in 2024, she had returned to competition, but many anticipated her full comeback would not materialize until 2025.
Fast forward to this year, Vukovic’s performance in Beograd marks a significant turning point. “After surgery, this is my best result. I am honestly in disbelief,” she commented emotionally. “I worked incredibly hard after the operation, both physically and mentally, and now everything feels right.” Her leap of 194 cm is just two centimeters shy of her personal and national indoor record, showcasing her elite form.
Vukovic’s recent results include a fifth-place finish at a meeting in Lođu, where she cleared 184 cm, followed by a jump of 188 cm on February 5. This momentum sets the stage for her upcoming competitions, including the Open Championship in Greece on February 14 and her title defense at the Balkan Indoor Championships in Beograd on February 21. She is also on track to qualify for the World Indoor Championships in Poland from March 20-22, aiming to be among the top 12 high jumpers worldwide.
“A good result in Beograd will motivate me for upcoming competitions. I want to enjoy and prove that this is all the result of hard work,” Vukovic emphasized.
As her thrilling journey continues, the athletic community and fans alike are eagerly awaiting her next jumps, hoping for further records and success on the global stage. Maria Vukovic’s story is not just one of athletic prowess but also of enduring spirit and resilience in the face of adversity.
