France’s Sebastien Peineau beat Dutch rival Mike Schloesser in the final of the men’s compound individual competition to take gold at the World Indoor Archery Championships in Ankara today ©World Archery

France’s Sebastien Peineau beat Dutch rival Mike Schloesser in the final of the men’s compound individual event to take top honours at the World Indoor Archery Championships at The Congresium in Ankara today.

Having shot a nine with his last regulation arrow to finish level at 145-145, the world number one prevailed in a shoot-off against Schloesser, the number two.

Neither competitor managed to find the 10-ring, but backed by his French team-mates, Peineau’s arrow was closer to the middle and earned him his maiden world title.

"In the last end I shot two nines, so I can’t believe I’m still world champion," said Peineau.

"My team was great.

"They supported me all the way through and it was fantastic to have them there in the stands."

Schloesser, winner of the men’s individual compound title at the 2013 World Outdoor Championships in Belek, had to settle for silver.

"I have struggled a lot in medal matches lately," he said.

"That was the first time in a while that I’ve shot well and, although I lost, I’m happy about that.

"Next time, it's mine."

The bronze medal went to surprise package Omid Taheri of Iran.

He defeated Slovenia's 2001 world champion Dejan Sitar 147-142.

Italy's Irene Franchini claimed the women's compound individual title
Italy's Irene Franchini claimed the women's compound individual title ©World Archery

Peineau had earlier been part of the French team that finished third in the compound men’s team event after beating Russia in a shoot-off following a 231-231 draw. 

The top seeded Italian trio Sergio Pagni, Michele Nencioni and Luigi Dragoni edged Denmark 231-230 to top the podium. 

Italy also tasted success in the women’s compound individual competition as Irene Franchini beat Russia’s Albina Loginova 141-138 to secure her first individual world title.

Belgium’s Sarah Prieels won the bronze medal with a 140-139 win against Slovenia’s Toja Cerne.  

Loginova, the two-time individual world champion, suffered more final heartache in the women’s compound team final.

Denmark’s Tanja Jensen, Sarah Holst Sonnichsen and Erika Anear hit a perfect 30 to defeat Russia in a shoot-off after the two sides finished level at 228-228 in regulation.

It ensured a first indoor world crown for Denmark.

They were joined on the podium by third-placed Italy, who overcame the United States 230-228.

The Italian team included Para-archer Eleonora Sarti, competing in her first able-bodied competition.

Remarkably, Sarti only took up the sport in 2013.