Qatar's Barshim named 'Best Asian Athlete' for second time

Qatar’s reigning Olympic and world high jump champion Mutaz Barshim was named the '2023 Best Asian Male Athlete' at the 50th anniversary of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA) held in Bangkok Monday.
It is the second time that three-time Qatari Olympic medalist has won the award after winning the accolade in 2018. Barshim’s award was received by his father Essa Barshim, also a former athlete.
"I'm so honoured and proud to have been awarded the title of 'Best Asian Athlete' for the second consecutive year. I want to thank my beloved country, Qatar, my family, my friends, my team, my sponsors, and fans who continually support and believe in me," Barshim said on one of his social media platforms.
Qatar Athletics Federation (QAF) president Mohamed Issa al-Fadala, who was present during the ceremony, Monday praised Barshim for yet another achievement.
“I want to congratulate HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad, President of the Olympic Committee, on the occasion of Qatari athlete Mutaz Barshim being named the Best Male Athlete in Asia for the second time,” the QAF president said in a statement.
“This achievement reflects the consistent level of performance by Mutaz Barshim and showcases the continuous presence of Qatari athletics on the celebration podiums. "Furthermore, we celebrate the presence of five Qatari champions: Mohamed Suleiman, Ibrahim Ismail, Talal Mansoor, Mutaz Barshim, Ismail Abkar. This demonstrates the stability and excellence of Qatari athletics,” al-Fadala said.
Barshim, who started his season with West Asia Athletics Championships in April and also took part in the Doha Diamond League in May, is eyeing more victories this year.
Among his major targets this year is winning the fourth consecutive world title in next month’s World Championships in Budapest after completing a golden hat-trick in Eugene last year.