The live performance went slightly differently, but this was my speech as intended.
Of course, I would also like to congratulate Mitch and Rogier on a fantastic year, but also all the other athletes who unfortunately did not make it into the final three!
Personally, I’m obviously thrilled to have won this award. It’s been a fantastic year in terms of sports, but not so much on a personal level.
There are so many people I want to thank, but I’ll do that in person.
There is one person I’d especially like to thank here, and that is Hans Jurgen Striek, my coach since I was 15! Sadly, he passed away last September.
What he has meant to me is beyond words. From when I was 15 until this very day.
I’ve won every title so far—from junior titles to Grand Slam victories and Paralympic medals—together with him.
And to now be named Paralympic Athlete of the Year while I’m here with my father and mother and HJ’s family—that’s very special to me!
This one's for you, boss!