Berhane Adere unleashed a devastating sprint finish to claim the first track gold at the World Championships in the women's 10,000m.
Ethiopia wrapped up an impressive one-two as Werknesh Kidane followed her compatriot home for silver with China's Yingjie Sun taking a deserved bronze.
Adere, who settled for the runners-up spot two years ago, won the event in 30 minutes 04.18 seconds - the third-fastest time in history.
Defending champion Derartu Tulu, also from Ethiopia, took part in the race despite suffering from food poisoning but was forced to pull up just after the halfway stage.
"I felt weak and decided to quit," she said.
Sun, who runs unusually with her hands flat down at her sides, had set a lightning pace over the first 3,000m but Adere stayed with her.
Kenyan-born Lornah Kiplagat, who now represents Holland, took over the lead at the halfway stage.
The quartet of Adere, Kidane, Kiplagat and Sun battled it out in a thrilling final lap at the Stade de France.
The Chinese 25-year-old made the first attempt to strike out on her own but Adere followed her lead and then surpassed her with effortless acceleration over the last 250m.
The Ethiopian's victory also saw her pass another landmark as she became the first woman in history to hold titles in cross country, road, track and the indoor arena at the same time.