world championships

Bolt was trailing for almost the entire race in the biggest showdown in the sport in years. But with gritted teeth, the two-time Olympic champion clawed back into contention and made his giant stride count to win in 9.79 seconds — .01 seconds faster than the American veteran.

"A lot of people counted me out," Bolt said. "So for me to come and win, this is a big deal."

  American Gatlin qualified fastest in 9.77.

Jamaican Asafa Powell also secured his spot in the semi-finals after putting in a strong run to finish second behind Tyson Gay in his semi-final.  Gay clocked 9.96 for top spot while Powell was just behind 9.97.  

Gatlin upstaged the Jamaican with the top time in the first round, even though the American got a little push from nature with a strong back wind of 2.1 meters per second during his 9.83-second race.

Bolt could count on an adoring crowd but faced a slight headwind as he cruised to a time of 9.96, the fifth fastest overall.

"It was OK. It was not perfect," Bolt said. "I still have some adjustments. Just have to concentrate on my technique now."