world championships

Another world record for Duplantis

After the United States claimed emphatic victories in both the men's and women's 4x400 metre relays, Duplantis took centre stage and duly delivered a perfect finale for the first championships on American soil.

The Swede sailed over 6.21 metres to surpass his previous mark by one centimetre - set in March en route to winning gold at the World Indoor Championships - and complete his collection of medals by claiming a first world title.

Usain Bolt beats Justin Gatlin for gold in 100 at worlds

Bolt was trailing for almost the entire race in the biggest showdown in the sport in years. But with gritted teeth, the two-time Olympic champion clawed back into contention and made his giant stride count to win in 9.79 seconds — .01 seconds faster than the American veteran.

"A lot of people counted me out," Bolt said. "So for me to come and win, this is a big deal."

Lucky Bolt qualifies for 100m final, will face Gatlin

  American Gatlin qualified fastest in 9.77.

Jamaican Asafa Powell also secured his spot in the semi-finals after putting in a strong run to finish second behind Tyson Gay in his semi-final.  Gay clocked 9.96 for top spot while Powell was just behind 9.97.  

World Championships: Bolt posts 5th-fastest time in 100m heats

Gatlin upstaged the Jamaican with the top time in the first round, even though the American got a little push from nature with a strong back wind of 2.1 meters per second during his 9.83-second race.

Bolt could count on an adoring crowd but faced a slight headwind as he cruised to a time of 9.96, the fifth fastest overall.

"It was OK. It was not perfect," Bolt said. "I still have some adjustments. Just have to concentrate on my technique now."