Gold medallist Thomas Daley of Britain bites his medal on the podium after winning the men's 10m platform diving final at the World Championships in Rome. [Xinhua]

Tom Daley became Britain's first individual world diving champion when he claimed the 10-meter platform title at the world championships Tuesday.

The 15-year-old was third entering the final round and while he scored four 10s on his last dive, his rivals faltered.

Daley's score of 539.85 points saw him overhaul Chinese pair Qui Bo and Zhou Luxin to claim the title.

Daley said: "I don't know what to say. I don't believe it, I just don't believe it. It's amazing.

"Today was never the day when I thought I would become world champion. I woke up and thought just go out and enjoy it.

"To come away with a gold medal was unthinkable. It still hasn't sunk in. It makes all the sacrifices worthwhile.

"At 2012 I really hope to do this again because the feeling I have got right now is incredible. I just want it to carry on."

Of the final two rounds, which saw him awarded a total of eight 10s, Daley added: "Those two are my favorite dives and that is why I leave them until last because I know under pressure I can do them well.

"I really thought they were going to catch up because they only needed seven and a halves and eights and for them not to get it is just crazy."

Thomas Daley of the United Kingdom competes in the final of men's 10m platform diving of the 13th FINA World Championships in Rome, July 21, 2009. Thomas Daley claimed the gold medal by scoring 539.85.[Xinhua]