However, normal service was resumed with the last event of the International Gymnastics Federation competition as Russia topped the podium in the group 3 hoops and 2 pairs of clubs final.

Having come within half a point of Russia in the previous day’s group all-around event in Baku’s National Gymnastics Arena, Japan offered further evidence of their talent as they won the group 5 balls competition with a score of 29.950.

It marked the first time Japan had claimed a world title in the discipline.

Bulgaria took the silver medal with 29.350, and bronze went to Russia with a score of 28.150.

The final event had a more familiar look to it as Russia finished top with 29.450.

Japan were only half a point behind them, and Italy took bronze with 29.200 in what was a very tight contest as Belarus were fourth on 29.100 points.