World silver medalist Nadzeya Ostapchuk of Belarus won Olympic gold in the women's shot put on Monday.
Ostapchuk posted a winning distance of 21.36 in the third round, with defending champion Valerie Adams of New Zealand taking the silver after throwing 20.70.
Evgeniia Kolodko of Russia snatched the bronze on her last attempt with a personal best 20.48.
"I'm very happy at this moment," Ostapchuk said. "It's my third Olympic Games and it's a long way to get to this gold medal. My coach said that I must commit all because my opponents were very strong and they could do something until the end."
Adams, the pre-Games favorite, couldn't hide her regret at failing to take gold.
"I am disappointed to be honest but that's sport. I really wanted to do my target but that was impossible. I gave it my all," she said.
Kolodko, however, was ecstatic.
"My dad, who is my trainer, told me to go out and do my best, to show everyone. I am very emotional," she said.
""I am very, very happy about this result."
Former world bronze medalist Lijao Gong of China was pushed off the podium despite throwing 20.22, a season's best.
Ostapchuk signaled her intent with a second-round throw of 21.31. Adams responded with 20.70 before the Belarusian extended the mark to 21.36.
Under pressure, Adams fouled her next two attempts by stepping on the board in the circle. Adams put in a tired final attempt of 20.24, sealing Ostapchuk's gold.
