TEARY Beth Mead ditched the crutches as she was crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2022 – the SIXTH footballer in 68 years to win the prestigious trophy.
Football came home this summer as England Women historically beat Germany 2-1 in extra-time in the Euro 2022 final.
Though she did not score in that Wembley showpiece, Mead was the vital component, top-scoring with six goals and assisting five to be named Player of the Tournament.
Mead, 27, arrived at the BBC Salford HQ tonight using a set of crutches for the red carpet because she is rehabbing after season-ending knee surgery.
But bravely she hobbled on to stage unaided as she was voted by the British public the star performer of the year ahead of cricketer Ben Stokes and curler Eve Muirhead.
The Arsenal striker – whose mum has terminal cancer – said: “I’m incredibly honored to win this award.
“I wouldn’t have done it without those girls, who backed me.
“Yes, I did my job and scored a few goals but I wouldn’t have done it without them, my mum, dad, and all of my family.
“This is for women’s sport and it heading in the right direction. So, let’s keep pushing the girls and keep doing the right things.
“The girls are like a family away from home and when things at home haven’t been great, they supported me so well.”
Eight-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt – who has retired from sprinting – was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award aged 36.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who died in September aged 96, was commemorated for her love and involvement in horseracing.
