Duplantis and McLaughlin-Levrone Honoured at World Athletics Awards
In a glittering ceremony attended by sporting royalty and Prince Albert II of Monaco, Armand Duplantis was crowned the World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year, capping a truly dominant season for the Swedish pole vault sensation.
The award recognises an unbeaten 2025 for Duplantis, during which he secured a world title and, remarkably, broke the world record on four separate occasions, further cementing his status as one of the greatest athletes of his generation.
A Champion's Jab at Grand Slam Track
Upon accepting the prestigious honour, Duplantis did not shy away from addressing a contentious issue within the sport. He took a direct and pointed jab at the now-defunct Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track, which collapsed earlier in the summer and has faced criticism for failing to pay athletes their full prize money.
"There was another tour that tried to exclude field events," Duplantis stated to an audience that responded with applause and laughter. "That didn’t go so well, did it? I am very proud to represent field eventers." His comments highlighted the ongoing debate about the representation and value of field events in the wider athletics landscape.
Expressing his personal motivation, the champion vaulter added, "I am delighted and honoured to win the award – I just love pushing myself and pushing boundaries."
McLaughlin-Levrone's Historic Double
On the women's side, the top accolade was claimed by American sprint superstar Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. Her phenomenal year was headlined by winning the world 400m gold in Tokyo with a breathtaking time of 47.78 seconds, the second-fastest time in history.
For good measure, McLaughlin-Levrone, who is now unbeaten in an incredible 24 consecutive races, also secured the Women's Track Athlete of the Year award. Her 2025 campaign was historic, as she became the first athlete ever to win world titles in both the 400m flat and the 400m hurdles. She further contributed to the United States' success as part of the gold medal-winning 4x400m relay team in Tokyo.
"Honestly I am blown away," she said, appearing humbled by the recognition. "I don't feel deserving to be honest. But Tokyo was a really special moment and I am so thankful for this honour and recognition."
Other Notable Winners
The awards ceremony also celebrated excellence across other disciplines. The Australian high jumper Nicola Olyslagers was honoured with the Women's Field Award, while Kenya's Emmanuel Wanyonyi, the world 800m champion, received the Men's Track Athlete of the Year honour.
In the out-of-stadium categories, Sabastian Sawe, the winner of the London Marathon, was named the Men's Athlete of the Year, and Spanish race walker María Pérez took home the women's equivalent award.
