BEIJING - David Rudisha led from gun to tape to win the 800 metres in 1:45.84 at the IAAF World Championships in Beijing – his first global title in three years.

The Kenyan world record holder led the pack through a pedestrian opening lap, hugging the inside before kicking for home with 150m remaining.

No one could rival his sudden spurt as he tore down the home straight to take victory ahead of Poland’s Adam Kszczot (1:46.08) and Bosnia’s Amel Tuka (1:46.30).

It marked the Olympic champion’s belated return to the summit of the event, having missed the World Championships in Moscow two years ago through injury.

Despite a low-key season, Rudisha was handed a huge opportunity at world gold when pre-race favourite Nijel Amos was ousted in the semi-finals.

Amos had beaten Rudisha six times in seven races prior to his surprise elimination on Sunday. Rudisha said: "I am delighted about this gold medal. It means a lot to me, especially after all the disappointments I had this year.

"During the last month I had a problem with my speed, but when I solved it and got my speed back I knew that no matter if the pace in this final will be slow or fast, I can win.”