Incredible Display of Sportsmanship By Kiwi Nikki Hamblin Is Being Praised Worldwide

New Zealand distance runner Nikki Hamblin has been involved in a moment of true Olympic spirit overnight.

Hamblin, 28, competing in the women's 5000m heats, tripped on the inside curb of the track with four laps to go, bringing her US competitor Abbey D'Agostino down to the ground with her.

Both athletes, clearly hurt and emotional, proceeded to take time to help each other to their feet to continue on with the race.

Photo: Getty Images

Hamblin and D'Agostino may have finished as the last two competitors in the field, but their embrace and shared tears at the finish line helped create a true illustration of the Olympic competitive spirit to the world.

D'Agostino was taken away in a wheelchair.

After initially failing to finish within the qualifying time both runners were added to the final after a protest from both the New Zealand and US teams.

The display of Olympic spirit has been creating headlines around the world, including Daily Mail UK, USA Today and of course Twitter.

Watch the beautiful video here.