The 35-year-old added the world title to his Olympic crown and his world record and admitted afterwards that there is more to come.

He said: "I didn't feel in the same way I did at Sydney that I needed to win here to put the seal of quality on my career, but it is important to me.

Indeed, he said he is looking forward to winning his first Commonwealth Games title next year and defending his European title.

He added: "After Sydney this is another stage in my career - the long goodbye.

"I jumped my furthest for three years and one of the furthest of all time, so it is gratifying."

Edwards, who produced a jump of 17.92 metres in the third round to claim gold, said he is relishing his grandfather figure role.

"I am pleased for the younger guys who jumped well, but when I am out there I am head-to-head with them and I want to win, " he said.

"I am like the grandfather seeing off the young grandchildren."

His win came despite a second-round foul when he narrowly overstepped the mark after a big jump.

Edwards said: " When I got that second-round foul I was worried that was my one chance, because the wind was predominantly in your face.

Edwards is hopeful of more success in the future.

He added: "I shall finish this season and then have a good rest, which I didn't have after Sydney. Then I shall start training in January and see how things go.

"I am 35 so I may get injured easily, although I have been injury-free for three years and I am surprised how good my shape is. I feel I have a big jump in me when it matters."