World Athletics recently held their annual awards ceremony in Monaco, where they honored the top athletes of the year. Letsile Tebogo, a talented sprinter from Botswana, and Sifan Hassan, a remarkable marathon runner from the Netherlands, were both recognized as the ‘Athletes of the Year’.
Sifan Hassan’s exceptional performance at the Olympics in Paris was the highlight of her year. Not only did she secure the gold medal in the marathon, but she also clinched two bronze medals in the 10,000-meter and 5,000-meter events. Her versatility and determination on the track earned her the prestigious out-of-stadium prize as well.
During the awards ceremony, Hassan expressed her surprise and gratitude, stating, “I never thought I was going to win this one. This year was crazy. It’s not only me –- but all the athletes have also been amazing.”
On the other hand, Letsile Tebogo made history by becoming the first African athlete to win the Olympic title in the 200-meter race. With a stunning time of 19.46 seconds, he outpaced his competitors and emerged victorious. Tebogo also claimed the men’s track title, emphasizing the significance of his achievement for the continent.
Other outstanding athletes who shone at the Olympics were also acknowledged by World Athletics. Swedish pole-vaulter Armand Duplantis, who set a new world record of 6.26 meters, and Ukrainian high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh, who broke the previous world record, were among the recipients of the prestigious awards.
Ethiopian Tamirat Tola, the winner of the men’s Olympic marathon, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who set a new world record in the 400-meter hurdles, were also recognized for their exceptional performances.
The complete list of World Athletics Awards winners includes Sifan Hassan as the Women’s World Athlete of the Year, Letsile Tebogo as the Men’s World Athlete of the Year, and a host of other talented athletes in various categories.
Overall, the awards ceremony in Monaco celebrated the remarkable achievements of these athletes and highlighted their dedication, talent, and determination in the world of athletics.
