King David Rudisha defends his 800-metre Olympic title with career-high performance in Rio

Kenyan 800 metre king David Rudisha hit a career high when he produced a last-lap kick to defend his Olympic title in style on Monday.

Rudisha, also the world champion and world record holder, timed a season’s best of one minute, 42.15 seconds to become the first man in 52 years to defend the 800m title.

“Running 1:42, it’s just fantastic. I had no doubts before,” said Rudisha after another imperious display.

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“It is great to win such a big competition, my second gold,” he said, having warned that he felt his form was almost hitting that high of his sublime 2010-12 period.

“It’s so great. I am so excited. It is the greatest moment of my career.”

The last man to win consecutive 800m titles was New Zealand’s Peter Snell in 1960 and 1964.

Turning to the injury problems that have bedevilled him in recent seasons, Rudisha said: “It’s been very difficult.

“I have stayed focused and positive. My coach has been great and given me hope.”