Ethiopia’s Letesenbet Gidey wins 2023 International Fair Play Award
“When Sifan fell, my heart was broken. I know the feeling of falling,” When people are happy, I’m happy. I feel sad when they’re sad. I am happy to receive the Fair Play Award 2023. Thank you.” said Gidey.
Ethiopian's Letesenbet Gidey, renowned for her silver medal in the world 10,000m, has been honoured with the International Fair Play Award at the World Athletics Awards 2023.
This prestigious recognition follows a selection process involving fan nominations and a jury formed by the International Fair Play Committee (CIFP) and World Athletics.
Gidey's fair play moment unfolded at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 23 when she displayed exemplary sportsmanship after securing silver in the women's 10,000m by comforting Netherlands' Sifan Hassan, who had experienced a dramatic fall on the home straight.
The winner was determined through social media scores and jury votes, with Gidey emerging as the deserving recipient. During a virtual meeting with Sunil Sabharwal, CIFP Secretary-General, and World Athletics Executive Board Member, Gidey was presented with the award.
“I am honoured and pleased to present you with this year’s special fair play trophy,” said Sabharwal. “Congratulations once again for your wonderful achievements this year, both on the track but also beyond that, helping your fellow athletes,” said Sabharwal,
“When Sifan fell, my heart was broken. I know the feeling of falling,” When people are happy, I’m happy. I feel sad when they’re sad. I am happy to receive the Fair Play Award 2023. Thank you.” said Gidey.
“When Sifan fell, my heart was broken. I know the feeling of falling. I am happy to receive the Fair Play Award 2023, thank you,” said Letesenbet Gidey after receiving her Award.
Press release ⬇️
🔗 https://t.co/YJjPYwRinT #AthleticsAwards pic.twitter.com/xrrtYJz497
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) December 9, 2023
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe commended the collaboration with CIFP and highlighted the importance of fair play moments in sports, emphasising the principles of fair competition, respect, friendship, team spirit, equality, and sportsmanship without doping.
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