Men's high jump world record progression

The first world record in the men's high jump was recognized by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) in 1912.

As of June, 2009, the IAAF has ratified 40 world records in the event.

In 1973, American Dwight Stones was the first Fosbury Flop jumper to set a world record.

The last Straddle style jumper to hold the World Record was Vladimir Yashchenko (Soviet Union/Ukraine) in 1978; all record-setters since then have used the Flop technique.

The world record of 2.45 metres (8.04 ft) by Cuban Javier Sotomayor in 1993 has never been surpassed.