World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year: Where will the pendulum swing?

Male athlete of the year: Where will the pendulum swing?

Never has there been a year in the history of track and field that athletes vying for the male athlete of the year have been keenly contested. 11 Athletes have been selected after a long and grueling season in which they put up fine performances in their various events. 

Mondo Duplantis is the defending Champion having picked up the gong last year to add to his first win in 2020. The Swede is a strong favorite this year as is US Noah Lyles who seems to be doing awesome things both on and off the track. How about the possibility of a snatch from Kelvin Kiptum who is making everyone wax lyrical about his world record in the marathon all at the age of 23? For Ryan Crouser, he will be looking to become the first Shot Putter to win the going in the history of the award. 

Here we take a look at the male athletes who have been nominated for Athlete of the Year. 

Neeraj Chopra, IND, Javelin:

As the reigning World and Asian Games champion in javelin, Neeraj Chopra has established himself as a formidable force in the men’s Javelin. His incredible journey to the top is marked by fierce determination and an unwavering spirit. With consistent excellence in the highly competitive javelin discipline, Neeraj has proven that he is a force to be reckoned with.

Ryan Crouser, USA, Shot Put:

In the realm of shot put, Ryan Crouser’s name resounds with authority. Not only is he the reigning World champion, but he also holds the world record in the Shot Put category. His remarkable feat of pushing the boundaries of human strength and agility is a testament to his unparalleled commitment to the sport.

Mondo Duplantis, SWE, Pole Vault:

The defending champion, Mondo Duplantis, is no stranger to the coveted title. Having clinched the World champion title in pole vault, alongside an astonishing Diamond League championship and a world record to his name, Mondo continues to set the bar high in this captivating discipline.

Soufiane El Bakkali, MAR, 3000m Steeplechase:

Steeplechase sensation Soufiane El Bakkali has proven his mettle by reigning as the World champion and maintaining an undefeated record in six finals. His exceptional performances in the 3000m steeplechase are a testament to his unwavering focus and prowess in the event.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen, NOR, 1500m/Mile/5000m

The Norwegian prodigy Jakob Ingebrigtsen has taken the middle-distance events by storm. With a World 5000m championship to his name and a silver medal in the 1500m, Jakob has also set European records in the 1500m, mile, and 3000m. His incredible versatility and consistent excellence have made him a formidable contender.

Kelvin Kiptum, KEN, Marathon

Kelvin Kiptum has etched his name in the annals of marathon history by triumphing in both the London and Chicago Marathons. However, his most awe-inspiring achievement is the rewriting of the marathon world record in 2:00.35. Kiptum’s relentless pursuit of excellence in the marathon discipline has captivated the world.

Pierce LePage, CAN, Decathlon Dynamo:

Canada’s Pierce LePage is the reigning World champion in the decathlon. As the world leader in this multifaceted event, Pierce’s exceptional abilities and remarkable consistency set him apart. The Canadian led the world rankings.

Noah Lyles, USA, Sprint Sensation:

Noah Lyles’ sprinting prowess knows no bounds. The World 100m and 200m champion remains undefeated in six 200m finals, solidifying his status as a one of the best sprinters of all time. His lightning speed and unwavering dominance have set the track ablaze. 

Alvaro Martin, ESP, Race Walk Maestro:

Alvaro Martin has conquered the world of race walking with a World 20km and 35km race walk championship to his name. His performances have not only earned him World leader status in the 20km race walk but also showcase his unwavering commitment to the sport.

Miltiadis Tentoglou, GRE, Long Jump Phenom:

Greece’s Miltiadis Tentoglou stands tall as the World champion in the long jump and a European Indoor champion. His incredible leaps and consistency in the long jump discipline have made him a standout contender. This year, he clinched the World Champion title and added the European Indoor Champion title to his illustrious resume.

Karsten Warholm, NOR, Hurdles and Sprints Extraordinaire:

Karsten Warholm’s mastery in both the 400m hurdles and 400m sprints is awe-inspiring. As the reigning World 400m hurdles champion and European indoor 400m champion, Karsten’s versatility and relentless drive make him a formidable force.

These remarkable athletes represent a spectrum of disciplines, each with their unique strengths and achievements. Their nomination for the 2023 Athlete of the Year award is not only a reflection of their past accomplishments but also a recognition of their unwavering dedication to their sport and the consistent pursuit of excellence. The stage is set for an intense battle as these athletes vie for the title and strive to etch their names alongside the legends of the sport. The world watches in anticipation, eager to witness who will ascend to the pinnacle of athletic supremacy in 2023.