In a breathtaking display of tactical brilliance and raw power, Britain's Josh Kerr stunned the athletics world by dethroning Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen to seize the men's 1500m gold medal at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest.
The Scottish runner, who took bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, executed a perfect race, biding his time before unleashing a devastating kick in the final straight to cross the line in 3:29.38. Norway's Ingebrigtsen, the heavy favourite, was forced to settle for silver, with Great Britain's Kerr's triumph marking a monumental upset on a thrilling night of action.
Dramatic Final Lap Decides Championship
The highly anticipated clash lived up to its billing as a tactical affair. The pace was steady for the first two laps before Ingebrigtsen moved to the front, expecting to control the race and burn off his rivals with his formidable finishing speed.
However, Kerr, along with teammate Jake Wightman – the defending champion who ultimately finished eighth – remained patient. Kerr made his decisive move rounding the final bend, pulling level with the Norwegian and then powering past him in the last 50 metres to send the British contingent in the crowd into a frenzy.
Duplantis Soars to Another Pole Vault Title
Elsewhere on a packed schedule, world record holder Mondo Duplantis of Sweden lived up to his superstar status. The American-born vauler successfully defended his world title, clearing a championship record of 6.10m before making three attempts at a new world record of 6.23m.
Although he couldn't quite add another centimetre to his world record, his dominance was never in doubt, cementing his position as the greatest pole vaulter of his generation.
British Medal Hopes Continue
The British team enjoyed further success beyond Kerr's heroics. Laura Muir safely navigated her way into the final of the women's 1500m, keeping her hopes of a first world outdoor medal alive.
There was also a standout performance from Victoria Ohuruogu, who produced a stunning personal best of 49.60 to win her 400m semi-final and qualify for the final as the second fastest overall.
The action in Budapest continues to deliver high drama, with Kerr's victory standing as one of the most memorable moments of the championships so far.
