Gatlin renews world leading time in men's 100m in Beijing

Justin Gatlin of the United States celebrates after winning the men's 100 meters at the IAAF World Challenge Beijing, China, May 21, 2014. Justin Gatlin finished the match in 9.87 seconds and claimed the title of the event. (Xinhua/Gong Lei)

American veteran sprinter Justin Gatlin cruised to a comfortable victory in the men's 100 meters in 9.84 seconds - the season's world leading time at the 2014 IAAF World Challenge Beijing meet on Sunday.

"Tonight was a good night for myself performance-wise. I came a whole hour early, so I kind of wait and stay warm for my body," said Gatlin.

"My coach told me just to stay calm and keep focus. Then I went out to win the race and technically do the job," he added.

The 32-year-old won the 2014 Diamond League Shanghai meet in 9.92 seconds last Sunday.

Gatlin's compatriots Michael Rodgers clocked 10.03 to grab the silver while Kim Collins from Saint Kitts and Nevis finished third in 10.11.

Local favorites Zhang Peimeng and Su Bingtian finished fourth and fifth respectively.

"Although I am 27 year-old right now, my goal is still to become the first Asian man to break into the 10-second," said Zhang, who clocked 10.00 seconds in the 2013 world championships in Moscow.