The international panel of athletics experts that comprises of representatives from all six continental areas of the IAAF, selected 20 nominees for the female and male World Athlete of the Year. Of the 20 nominees, six are from Africa.
WOMEN
Almaz Ayana (Ethiopia)
World 10,000m champion
World-leading record of 30:16.32 under her belt and
World 5000m silver medalist
Hellen Obiri (Kenya)
World 5000m Champion,
IAAF Diamond League champion,
Undefeated at 5000m
Set world leads of 8:23.14 at 3000m and 14:18.37 at 5000m
Caster Semenya (South Africa)
World 8000m champion,
IAAF Diamond league champion
World bronze medalist
Undefeated all year at 800m
Ran the fastest time of 1:55.16 in nine years
MEN
Elijah Manangoi (Kenya)
World 1500m champion
IAAF Diamond League Champion
Luvo Manyonga (South Africa)
World long jump champion
IAAF Diamond League champion
Undefeated all year in nine competitions
Wayde van Niekerk (South Africa)
World 400m champion
World 200m silver medalist
World best at 300m
The voting process is three ways; the IAAF Council’s vote (50%), the IAAF family’s vote (25%) and the fans or public vote (25%) – voting will be via IAAF’s social media platforms.
Featured Photo: IAAF
