'I'm favourite for BBC SPOTY over Rory McIlroy and Lando Norris – it's utterly surreal'
Matt Weston expresses surprise and excitement at being the favorite for BBC Sports Personality of the Year after winning gold at the Winter Olympics.
Matt Weston, the 28-year-old skeleton athlete, is in contention for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award following his remarkable performance at the Milan Cortina Games, where he made history by winning both individual and mixed team gold medals. This achievement makes him only the second British athlete to secure two golds in Winter Olympic history, an accolade that he humbly reflects on, describing the moment of victory as "utterly surreal."
In the individual event, Weston showcased his exceptional talent by setting four course records, finishing 0.88 seconds ahead of his closest competitor, Germany's Axel Jungk. His impressive feats not only contributed to his recent accolades but also placed him in elite company within Team GB, matching the gold medal tally of former star Lizzy Yarnold. The excitement of winning gold was magnified when Weston also successfully competed alongside Tabitha Stoecker in the mixed team event, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the sport.
As Weston contemplates the recognition he is receiving, he grapples with the reality of being a household name in British sports. His reflections indicate not only a sense of pride in his achievements but also a focus on future competitions and ambitions. The recognition as a favorite for the BBC SPOTY award comes with significant implications for his career and public image, as he navigates the pressure of potential victory and the expectations that accompany it, especially against notable competitors like Rory McIlroy and Lando Norris.