Rudisha had told his rivals in the 800 meters to be ready for a world record, and he delivered on his word, winning Thursday’s final in 1 minute, 40.91 seconds, one-tenth of a second off the mark he set in 2010. That makes him the first man ever to run a sub-1:41.00 time for the 800m.

Immediately, he lifted his arms in victory as the time flashed just next to him and the 80,000-capacity crowds at the Olympic Stadium erupted in wild cheers, celebrating the first world record of the track and field program.

In the stands Chief Olympic Organizer Seb Coe and IAAF President Lamine Diack were shaking hands to celebrate the success.

“I had no doubt about winning but I was waiting for perfect conditions to break the record,” the 23-year-old said.

“When I woke up this morning, I saw the weather was great and I knew I could do something special. I am happy. I've waited for this moment for a long time. To come here and get a world record is unbelievable,” he added.

Nijel Amos of Botswana won silver in 1.41.73 to claim his country's first Olympic medal and bronze went to his fellow teenager Tim Kitum of Kenya in 1.42.53.