American Christian Coleman broke the 60m indoor world record at the Clemson Invitational in South Carolina on Friday evening (January 19).

The 21-year-old sprinter, who finished behind compatriot Justin Gatlin to win 100m silver in the World Championships last summer, ran 6.37 seconds at an indoor meet in South Carolina.

“World record, 6.37s. Great start to my career. Thank you God,” Coleman tweeted after his record-breaking performance.

The world record was previously held by Maurice Greene (USA) at 6.39, who went on to break the world 100m record and win two golds at the Sydney Olympics for 100m and 4 x 100m.

Coleman, who improved his previous 60m best of 6.45, is expected to compete at the World Indoor Championships in Birmingham this March.

As is the normal procedure, the world record is subject to ratification by the IAAF.