Wlodarczyk smashes women’s hammer world record

Pole Anita Wlodarczyk underlined her absolute dominance of the women's hammer, securing the Olympic gold by more than five and a half metres. The 31-year-old’s third throw of the final improved on her previous mark of 81.08 metres. Wlodarczyk screamed in delight before the projectile even landed, knowing she had done enough to break the world record which she had set on home soil at the start of August.

The only woman to have thrown the hammer further than 80 metres, the 31-year-old world champion had already broken the Olympic record with a second throw of 80.40 when she entered the ring for the third time.

“It's the world record and I believed I could get the gold medal but wasn't sure about the world record. Before the third throw I felt the power and knew it would be the best moment. After many years of hard work I'm on top.” she said.

“After the world record I felt an explosion of happiness. But now I'm extremely tired. This day is the best day of my life. It was my mum's birthday today so it is such a gift that she is here today.”

Zhang Wenxiu of China threw 76.75 to add a silver medal to the bronze she won in London four years ago. Great Britain’s Sophie Hitchon was third with a national record of 74.54 as she claimed a first ever medal for her country in the event.