European 400-metre hurdles champion Emma Zapletalová has been named Slovakia’s Athlete of the Year for 2026, retaining the title she won last year. It is the third time she has received the award.
Zapletalová enjoyed an outstanding season, winning European gold in Birmingham, setting a new national record of 52.30 seconds and claiming five victories in the Diamond League. She said her greatest achievement was winning the European title and praised her consistency throughout the season.
Middle-distance runner Gabriela Gajanová finished second in the poll, while hurdler Matej Baluch came third. Bram Peters, Zapletalová’s coach, was named Coach of the Year.
TASR
Zuzana Chovancová Zsolnaiová, Photo: TASR
