Rudisha wrote himself indelibly into the history books with his exploits at the London Games, setting a jaw-dropping world record on his way to the first of two Olympic gold medals in the 800m.
The signs of his greatness had long been there for all to see, and never more than in the build-up to the games, as Rudisha dominated world class fields in the IAAF Diamond League.
Though he ultimately failed to win a third Diamond Trophy in 2012, Rudisha delivered the most memorable moment of the season in the middle distance disciplines with his marvellous performance in Paris.
Tucking in behind the pacemaker in the first 400m, the Kenyan surged away from the chasing pack in the second lap, establishing a lead of at least 30m. As he crossed the finish line, the clock read 1:41.54.
It was a new Diamond League record, and one which still stands today. And though Rudisha had hoped to go faster at the Stade de France, his disappointment did not last long. Building on that fine run in Paris, he ran 1:40.91 in London to become the first man to break the 1:41 barrier over two laps.