Konstantinos Tsiklitiras of Greece took silver, tying with American John Biller.

Two-time defending champion (three-time if the 1906 Intercalated Games are counted) Ray Ewry of the United States was heavily favored.

[2] Australasia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Norway, and Sweden each made their debut in the event.

The top four jumpers in the qualifying round advanced to the final.

The judges determined the initial height of the bar and any increases.