Athete of the Year 2024 Award: All Candidates First Round

The race for the Athlete of the Year 2024 is in full swing, with fans rallying behind their favorite sports stars. This prestigious title, awarded by the International World Games Association (IWGA), recognizes outstanding athletes across various disciplines. With the first round of voting underway, here are the top contenders leading the pack:

Current Front-Runners

Veddriq Leonardo (Indonesia, Sport Climbing)

• Votes: 21,410
• The Indonesian climbing sensation is setting the pace in the competition, proving his dominance in the world of speed climbing. Veddriq has consistently broken records and showcased remarkable agility, making him a strong favorite for the title.

Xin Tong (China, Wushu)

• Votes: 12,009
• A rising star in Wushu, Xin Tong has impressed fans with her precision, strength, and artistry. Her performances have made a lasting impact, securing her a strong second-place position.

Kristin Lätt (Estonia, Flying Disc)

• Votes: 10,129
• Flying disc might not be the most mainstream sport, but Kristin Lätt is proving its competitive appeal. Her athleticism and strategic play have earned her a dedicated following in this fast-paced discipline.

Duccio Marsili (Italy, Roller Sports)

• Votes: 8,668
• Representing the world of roller sports, Duccio Marsili has demonstrated speed, agility, and technical skill, securing his place among the leading contenders.

Vanita Krouch (United States, American Football)

• Votes: 7,750
• American football has been gaining global attention, and Vanita Krouch is leading the charge. Her performance and leadership on the field have made her a standout athlete in the competition.

Allison Hoeft & Sydney Martin (United States, Cheerleading)

• Votes: 6,240
• This dynamic duo is bringing cheerleading to the forefront, impressing with their synchronization, athleticism, and teamwork. Their growing vote count reflects the increasing recognition of cheerleading as a competitive sport.

How the Voting Works

The public voting process has been underway since January 9, 2025. The first round runs until January 22, after which the top 10 athletes will advance to the next stage.

The final round of voting will continue until January 31, 2025, when the IWGA Athlete of the Year 2024 will be officially announced.

Who Will Take the Title?

With thousands of votes already cast, the competition remains fierce. Will Veddriq Leonardo maintain his lead, or will another athlete surge ahead in the final days of voting? Fans can make their voices heard by participating in the poll and supporting their favorite athletes.