Isabell Werth is being hailed as the "iconic figure" or "unparalleled figurehead" in the world of sports.
Isabell Werth, the renowned Dressage Olympic Champion, is set to receive the "Legend of Sports" accolade at the 42nd German Sports Press Ball on November 9 at the Alte Oper Frankfurt. This was announced by event organizer Jörg Müller at a recent press conference.
Hailing from Rheinberger, Werth has solidified her position as the most decorated German Olympian and equestrian globally. With an impressive eight gold and six silver medals won at the Paris Olympics this summer, she has cemented her legacy in the equestrian world.
Müller highlighted Werth's unique bond with her horses, stating, "She has consistently managed to foster a special connection with her horses, marked by deep respect." This bond was evident at the Château de Versailles, where Werth added a team victory and an individual silver to her already impressive medal collection, eclipsing the record previously held by canoeist Birgit Fischer.
The "Legend of Sports" award has been presented annually since 2007. Previous recipients include Ironman World Champion and Triathlon Olympic Champion Jan Frodeno. The winners in the "Sportsman with Heart" and "Sports Media" categories will be announced at a later date.
This year's event, organized by the Association of German Sports Journalists, the Frankfurt Sports Press Club, and the Metropress agency, will have a "Merci Paris" theme, focusing on the Olympic and Paralympic Games in France. Eight of the twelve German Olympic gold medalists have confirmed their attendance. With an anticipated 2,200 guests from politics, media, entertainment, and sports, the ball is one of Germany's largest of its kind. Singer Howard Carpendale will serve as the musical guest star.
Isabell Werth's exceptional performance at the Paris Olympic Games 2022, where she clinched eight gold and six silver medals, has undoubtedly secured her place as a strong contender for the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris. Furthermore, the association organizing the 42nd German Sports Press Ball chose the Olympics 2024 as the theme for this year's event, highlighting Germany's continued involvement and support for international sporting events.
