(Reuters) – Six athletes – Faith Kipyegon, Noah Lyles, Armand “Mondo” Duplantis, Tigist Assefa, Kelvin Kiptum, and Yulimar Rojas – were all named World Athletes of the Year on Monday after the awards were expanded into three categories.
The 2023 World Athletics Awards have been divided into track, field and out of stadia categories following feedback received during the voting process, the organisers said.
“The depth of talent and the outstanding performances in our sport this year more than justify the expansion,” said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.
“Our World Athletes of the Year alone have achieved seven world records … in 2023, as well as a host of world titles and major wins, so it is only fitting that they be recognised as the athletes of the year in their respective fields.”
Last year’s winner Duplantis, Assefa, Kiptum and Kipyegon set world records in their respective events in 2023, while all six World Athletes of the Year secured world titles or major marathon wins, World Athletics added.
“Today is a beautiful closure of an amazing year for me,” Kenya’s Kipyegon said acknowledging the prize.
“I am honoured that my performances on the track have been recognised by the athletics community … I hope my achievements motivate and inspire many girls to do the same.”
In Budapest in August, double Olympic champion Kipyegon became the first woman to win the 1500 metres and 5000m at the World Championships.
Men’s track award winner Lyles also achieved an individual title double at the World Championships in Budapest, winning 100m gold and retaining his 200m title before forming part of a victorious U.S. 4x100m team.
Winners at 2023 World Athletes of the Year:
Women’s track: Faith Kipyegon, Kenya, 1500m/mile/5000m
Women’s field: Yulimar Rojas, Venezuela, triple jump
Women’s out of stadia: Tigist Assefa, Ethiopia, marathon
Men’s track: Noah Lyles, U.S., 100m/200m
Men’s field: Mondo Duplantis, Sweden, pole vault
Men’s out of stadia: Kelvin Kiptum, Kenya, marathon
(Reporting by Anita Kobylinska in Gdansk; Editing by Ken Ferris)
