Jorgensen has proved the dominant force on the World Triathlon Series circuit in recent years, including achieving 12 consecutive victories in races from 2014 to 2015.

She got off to an ideal start by ending the swim section of the race in a 19-strong leading group, which contained Switzerland’s Spirig and the woman she beat in a photo finish at London 2012, Lisa Norden of Sweden.

With Jorgensen arguably the fastest runner in the field, Spirig looked to push the pace on the bike, but the leading group remained together throughout the 40 kilometres ride.

The duo came out of the final transition in the lead and commenced a head-to-head battle, while the British duo of Non Stanford and Vicky Holland pursued the bronze medal.

Jorgensen and Spirig continued to alternate places during the run, but with 2.5km remaining, the American triathlete eventually broke her rival’s resistance.

The 30-year-old pushed on to claim gold in a time of 1 hour 56min 16sec, with Spirig crossing 40 seconds adrift in the end to secure the silver medal.

"I keep crying for some reason. I'm just really happy after everything we've done after this past four years,” said Jorgensen.

“I knew if I kept doing what I've been doing, hopefully it would work out.

"I never think you have a perfect race, it was a fun race for sure.

“Nicola Spirig was playing some games and it was fun to do that and hopefully it made it more exciting for the fans too."

The final medal was claimed by Holland, as she triumphed over her British team-mate and training partner Stanford, crossing the line in a time of 1:57.01.

Stanford missed out on the bronze, finishing three seconds down.