James shocks Merritt to claim gold

Teenager Kirani James exploded on to the world stage with a thrilling victory in the 400 metres final to give the tiny Caribbean nation of Grenada its first World Championship medal.

Just two days short of his 19th birthday, James nervelessly chased down defending champion LaShawn Merritt on the home straight and surged past the American just before the line to claim the gold medal in a personal best time of 44.60.

“It’s a great feeling, but it’s a great just representing my country,” James said. “I was just trying to relax and finish strong.”

Olympic champion Merritt came round the final bend with what looked like a comfortable lead before being beaten by James’s finish and grabbing the teenager around the waist when they had crossed the line in a belated attempt to slow him down.

Merritt, who returned from a 21-month ban for doping in July and set the best time of the year in the first round, took his second world championship silver medal in 44.63. Belgium’s Kevin Borlee, whose twin brother Jonathan finished fifth in the final, claimed bronze in 44.90. James, the third youngest men’s champion at a world championships, made his debut as a professional at the Diamond League meeting in London this month.