Canadian gymnast Ellie Black wins Fair Play Award at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Four-time Canadian gymnastics Olympian Ellie Black has won the Paris 2024 Fair Play Award, the International Fair Play Committee (CIFP), in collaboration with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), announced Wednesday (28 August).
The award, a joint initiative by the IOC and CIFP, recognises athletes who exemplify the spirit of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for others.
The Fair Play Award was determined through a collaborative process that engaged both athletes and the general public. Athletes and fans were invited to submit nominations via social media. A jury composed of representatives from the IOC and CIFP then selected a shortlist of five finalists. The final decision was made by public vote, which garnered tens of thousands of responses.
“It was a real joy to have a list of over 20 good candidates living the values of Fair play during the Olympics, and in Ellie we have a well-deserving winner.” stated HSH The Princess Nora of Lichtenstein a member of the Jury, as well as that of both organizations, the IOC and CIFP, respectively.
"We are thrilled to see Ellie Black receive this well-deserved recognition," said CIFP President, Dr Jeno Kamuti. "Her example serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and respect in competition."
At Paris 2024, Black’s sportsmanship was on full display, leading her team to a fifth-place finish before taking sixth in the all-around final.
But, perhaps, the moment that stood out the most came following her competition in the fourth women’s artistic gymnastics qualifying subdivision, in which Canada competed alongside Team France.
The home nation, which arrived with high hopes after taking third as a team at the 2023 World Championships, struggled through its competition with star Melanie de Jesus dos Santos suffering falls in each of her three opening routines.
De Jesus dos Santos and Team France did not advance to any medal round.
After competition, Black and Canadian teammate Shallon Olsen were seen comforting de Jesus dos Santos, wiping away her tears and offering extended hugs and words of encouragement, reminding people around the world of the power of the Olympic Games to united others from across the globe.
Black was one of five finalists for the award along with World Rowing president Jean-Christophe Rolland; Hungarian fencer Csanad Gemsi; cyclists Fariba Hashimi (AFG) and Hanna Tserakh (AIN); and German chef de mission Olaf Tabor.
The Fair Play Award, celebrating its 60th anniversary, honours extraordinary acts of sporting spirit during the Olympic Games Paris 2024. The award is a testament to how Olympic athletes inspire us not just with their athletic achievements but also with their grace and sportsmanship.