Doha, May 16 (IANS): Veteran Justin Gatlin trimmed 0.03 second off his career best to win the men's 100 metres with a meet record of 9.74 seconds at the Diamond League here.

The American took the spotlight in 2014 as he remained unbeaten for the whole season and registered the fastest time of the year in both 100m and 200m with the 9.77 seconds run in Brussels last September, standing as his 100m personal best (PB), reports Xinhua.

Starting from the third lane on Friday, Gatlin's reaction time of 0.161 second was the second slowest among the eight sprinters but he managed to build a formidable midway lead before dashing home in style to ignite the packed stands in the Qatar Sports Club.

"It was a magical night for me. I won as I did on previous races here but I ran even faster, I am very happy. I put a great show for the fans, I have been training hard for that. Doha is a great place for me. It is a popular meet here. I was invited again this season and with my performance I sent a statement," said Gatlin.

Gatlin's countryman Michael Rodgers finished second in 9.96 while Keston Bledman of Trinidad and Tobago took third in 10.01.