Peter Bol becomes first Australian in 53 years to make 800 metre Olympic final

Peter Bol has shattered a long-standing drought in Tokyo to become the first Australian man in 53 years to see himself into the 800 metre final at an Olympic Games.

Bol topped his semi-final in a clinical run, setting a new Australian and Oceania record with a time of 1.44.11 to guarantee his spot in Wednesday night's decider.

It was a stunning performance from the 27-year-old who swept around the final bend to sail himself into the lead down the home stretch, easing up metres from the line in celebration.

"I put myself in the best position to qualify," Bol said after the race.

"Even if I didn't, I would have been happy with it."

The Sudanese-born Aussie finished ahead of American Clayton Murphy who was the second automatic qualifier in the second semi-final.

Bol will be the first Australian in 53 years to contest an 800 metre Olympic final since Ralph Doubell won gold at the 1968 Olympics.

"Job's done today but still a lot to go," Bol said.

"We can't underestimate any of these runners. Any day, someone can come out."

Fellow Australians Charlie Hunter and Jeffrey Riseley did not advance from the semi-finals.