Tokyo Olympics 2020: Tom Walsh creates history by defending Diamond League shot-put title

Tom Walsh in action at a shot put event in Paris.
Tom Walsh in action at a shot put event in Paris. Photo credit: Photosport

Kiwi shot-putter Tom Walsh has created history, becoming the first man to win back-to-back Diamond League titles.

The Canterbury colossus dominated the final event in Brussels, after a huge opening throw of 22.30m left a quality field in his wake.

Walsh finished 15 centimetres clear of Brazil's Darlan Romani (22.15m), with Olympic champion Ryan Crouser of USA third, a further seven centimetres back (22.08m).

On top of his winning effort, Walsh had two more throws over 22m, landing 22.07m in round four and 22.05m in round five.

Winning the league meant he took home US$50,000 (NZ$78,000) in prizemoney.

Despite his impressive efforts, Walsh felt like he could have done better. 

"It's a good feeling walking away with the Diamond League title again," Walsh told Newshub.

"I felt like I left a little bit out there. I had a great first round throw, but I didn't manage to build on it and throw a bit further - I felt like I had more up my sleeve.

"But the Diamond League finals is where all the top guys show up, so winning this gives me confidence heading into the world championships."

A builder by trade, Walsh is now hoping to defending his world outdoor title in Doha next month.

He will attempt to defend his indoor title in China in March and then compete in the Olympics in July.

"I feel like I can back up this performance at the world championships in a few weeks' time, but the level of competition in shot put right now is crazy," Walsh added.

"We had a slow start to the year, but it is all paying dividends now and I'm hitting my best when it matters." 

Walsh has one more event in Poland before the world championships.

Newshub.