Ashton Eaton breaks decathlon world record

Defending champion Ashton Eaton has retained his decathlon title at the World Athletics Championships, breaking his own world record to secure the gold in Beijing.

The American headed into the final event knowing that he was all but guaranteed the gold, having opened up a huge lead over Damian Warner with impressive displays in the discus, javelin and pole vault.

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He needed a fast time in the 1,500m to beat his previous highest point total of 9,039, which he did by six points after completing the event in 4:17.52.

Warner did enough to secure the silver medal with a national record 8695 points, while Germany's Rico Freimuth secured bronze with 8561, a new personal best.