World Athlete of the Year Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone - in her words

World champion, the second-fastest women's 400m runner of all time, and now a two-time World Athlete of the Year winner, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone said that she was shocked to be receiving the top honour at the World Athletics annual awards.

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Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (Getty Images)

(Getty Images)

Here USA's Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone reflects on her successful season and looks ahead to the future.

"Thank you so much for this award. I'm truly honoured and humbled to be receiving this, in a category full of so many amazing women who had outstanding years and performances. I'm honestly shocked to be receiving this, but I'm so grateful to World Athletics, I'm grateful to the fans who voted for me, for recognising this season and what we were able to accomplish.

"I want to say congratulations to all the other nominees and finalists and amazing performances that were put out there because this year was unreal to witness and I'm grateful I got to be a part of that, so thank you so much for the support.

"Thank you to my coach, to my husband, to my family, to all of my therapists, body workers, supporters and everybody who has been a part of this journey."

On winning the World Athlete of the Year Award:

"I’m honestly blown away to win this.