Armand Duplantis reacted with characteristic grace on being named men's European Athlete of the Year for the third time at the Golden Tracks award night at Batumi, Georgia on Saturday (25).
Now back in training and unable to attend the glittering ceremony, the Swedish pole vault icon said in his video acceptance: “It truly means a lot to me and my family. And of course, every time that I'm at any international competitions, I'm trying to represent not only me and my country, but also Europe as a whole, as best as I possibly can.”
"Beautiful" award crowns brilliant season
It crowns another superb season for Mondo, who won his third world titles indoors and outdoors and increased his world record to 6.30m this year.
“Thank you so much for the Golden Tracks award,” he said. “It’s a beautiful honour for me. Very sorry that I couldn't be there. Unfortunately, I have to be here in the United States. I'm on a training camp right now, building up for next season.”
“But I'm really, really honoured to receive this award again. It truly means a lot to me and my family.”
He also reflected on a memorable year. “I'm very glad that I can do my job very well this past year and be able to do a lot of great things,” he said. “Of course, with the climax probably being the world record at the World Championships.
"Thank you everybody for the support. Thanks for everybody that voted me, the jury, and I really appreciate this award, and hope to see you guys soon.”