TOKYO:

Spain's Maria Perez struck double gold after winning the 20km race walk at the world championships in Tokyo on Saturday.

Perez, who won the 35km race walk last weekend, clocked a season's best of 1hr 25min 54sec for victory in the shorter event.

It meant the 29-year-old defended both titles after also winning the double in the last worlds in Budapest in 2023.

"I have been in five world championships and this is my fourth medal. I am the happiest woman in the world," said Perez.

"I did not come here today to make history in women's sport. I just came to improve myself and not to focus on the time."

Perez added: "My strategy was to hold on and try to survive. Last time in Japan (at the 2021 Olympics), I left with a bitter sweet taste because I was fourth. I am leaving happy now.

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