The mayor of Kyiv, ex-world heavyweight boxing champion Vitali Klitschko has been awarded the prestigious Arthur Ashe Courage Award, Boxing Scene reports.
The award is presented by the American television channel ESPN to a worthy representative of the sports community for his work, which goes beyond sports and has a significant impact on the world.
“Vitaliy’s poise and strength as his city and country face unfathomable trials far exceeded the incredible determination he displayed as one of boxing’s finest heavyweight champions. His dedication to the people of Ukraine has been an inspiration to the world and his courage is a shining example of the bones of the human spirit. We are honored to present him with the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage,” said ESPN Content executive editor Rob King.
The publication emphasizes that Vitali Klitschko became a central figure in the defense of his country when Russian troops invaded Ukraine.
In turn, Klitschko noted that he perceives this award as recognition of the courage of every Ukrainian who defends his state.
“It is a great honor for me to receive this award. I am convinced that this is a recognition of the courage and inviolability of the Ukrainian people, who have courageously resisted the Russian aggressor for more than 3 months. This is an award for everyone who defends the independence and freedom of Ukraine,” he said.
The Vitali Klitschko award ceremony will take place on July 20.
The Arthur Ashe Award for Courage is one of the most distinguished, prestigious and well-known awards in sports. Previously, it was awarded to such stars and figures as Muhammad Ali, Nelson Mandela and others.
