Ben Ainslie: Faced a long wait before finding he had won

She knew that a top-four finish would seal the gold - but when Matthysse took control of the race and Robertson slipped back into fifth, it looked like she would have to settle for silver.

But she battled back into third spot to claim the title and add another gold to Britain's burgeoning haul of medals.

"It has not really sunk in yet," said Robertson. "But I'm really chuffed."

Rival's appeal

Ainslie, who was second to Scheidt in Atlanta four years ago, had to wait more than four hours after finishing his race to learn his fate.

He and Scheidt were involved in a see-saw contest throughout the Laser discipline - and the Brazilian complained that Ainslie tried to baulk him in the last of the 11 races.

But the Hampshire sailor was always confident of retaining his Olympic title, and the appeal jury ruled in his favour.

"Over the years we have had some great battles," said Ainslie of his arch rival. "I am sure Rob will be very upset but there are ups and downs in this sport and I hope we can continue our friendship.

"It was very close in Atlanta when Rob got the better of me after he did the same thing as today. What goes around comes around.

"It's a shame it had to come down to that. I would rather have won with a race to spare but I did what I had to do. I was just trying to take his wind and force him into bad angles."