Emmanuel Karalis: From Racism and Depression to Panhellenic Records and European Gold

Undoubtedly deserving of the award for the best Greek athlete of the last year, Emmanuel Karalis continues to collect medals and break records. The once troubled child in pole vault has left his difficult past behind. On Sunday night (March 10, 2025), ‘Manolo’ made history at the European Indoor Championships in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, capturing the gold medal with a jump of 5.90 meters. He shared this victory with Dutch athlete Menno Vloon. After silver medals at the European Championships outdoors and indoors, as well as in the K23 category, and bronze medals at the Olympics, World Indoor Championships, and in the K18 category, Karalis finally earned his first gold. This marks him as the first Greek pole vaulter to win a European Championship gold. In 2024 alone, he shattered multiple national records, culminating in an impressive leap of 6.02 meters in Clermont-Ferrand, France. Born and raised in Athens with roots from Pyrgos Ilia and Uganda, Karalis overcame racism and bullying during his school years. In 2022, he took a temporary hiatus from competitions to focus on his mental health, openly discussing his struggles with anxiety and depression. With renewed vigor and family support, he returned stronger than ever, continuing to conquer new heights and express his hunger for even greater achievements.