Zhu Jianhua won bronze in the People's Republic of China's first appearance.

The United States, which had made the podium in each of the 18 editions of the high jump before the 1980 boycott, now missed the podium for the first time in which the country competed, as Dwight Stones in fourth place fell just short of becoming the first man to earn three medals in the event.

Two-time bronze medalist (1972 and 1976) Dwight Stones of the United States, who had missed the Moscow Games due to the boycott, was back, however.

The United States made its 19th appearance, most of any nation, having missed only the boycotted 1980 Games.

If fewer than 12 jumpers could achieve it, the top 12 (including ties) would advance to the final.