Wang Shun (R) and Ye Shiwen (L). [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

East China's Zhejiang province announced the "Top 10 Athletes of 2023" on April 10, honoring outstanding athletes from the region.

The most prestigious awards - Best Male and Female Athletes of the Year, were clinched by swimmers Wang Shun and Ye Shiwen.

Wang Shun, the torchbearer for the Hangzhou Asian Games, demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship with four gold, one silver, and one bronze medals. Wang is the oldest athlete on the national swimming team, and he is heading to Shenzhen next week to compete in the National Swimming Championships, in preparation for the Paris Olympics.

For Ye Shiwen, the past year has marked a major comeback. She inspired many by securing an Asian Games gold medal in her hometown after a 9-year hiatus. Ye expressed gratitude for the years of support and vowed to convert this love into motivation.

Swimmer Xu Jiayu, who once again struck five golds at the Hangzhou Asian Games, was awarded the Best Breakthrough Award of the Year. He said he looks forward to making new breakthroughs at the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Short-distance running ace Xie Zhenye, who won two gold medals as the flag bearer for the Chinese delegation at the closing ceremony of the Hangzhou Asian Games, received the Best Sportsmanship Award.

The Annual Best Coach Award went to Cai Li, coach of the provincial swimming team. Under his guidance, athletes have achieved remarkable success, upholding and promoting the best traditions of Zhejiang swimming.

The provincial shooting team had an outstanding year, with several sharpshooters qualifying for the Paris Olympics lineup, earning them the title of Best Team of the Year.

Established in 1998, the Zhejiang provincial "Top 10 Athletes" selection event is one of the longest-running sports awards in China, with nearly 300 individuals and teams honored over the years.

Swimmer Xu Jialing is honored as the Best Athlete with Disabilities. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]