Michele Kang Honored for Advancing Gender Equality in Women's Soccer

Michele Kang, owner of major women's soccer clubs, was awarded the IOC Gender Equality Award for her efforts in promoting women's sports. She is recognized for advocating for sustainable and independent women's sports with equal representation. The global winner was Abhijit Bhattacharya for community sports initiatives.

Michele Kang, an influential figure in women's soccer, has been recognized with a prestigious award from the International Olympic Committee for championing gender equality. As the owner of notable clubs such as OL Lyonnes in France, Washington Spirit in the U.S., and London's City Lionesses, Kang has made strides toward a more equitable sports world.

The IOC citation praised Kang's vision of sustainable women's sports where equality translates into equal results. Her efforts are seen as pivotal in strengthening women's football's ecosystem and advancing gender equality, representation, and professional standards across the sport.

Meanwhile, the global champion of IOC's annual awards was Abhijit Bhattacharya of India. The former volleyball team captain was lauded for his work in rural Assam, where he created a 400-team community league with UNICEF, aimed at promoting leadership, gender equality, and education among rural adolescents.

(With inputs from agencies.)