Mitrovic: Serbian Golden Ball a reward for my work, discipline

BELGRADE - Serbia and Al Hilal striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, the winner of the Football Association of Serbia 2023 Golden Ball Award for Best Male Footballer of the Year, said on Friday the honour was a reward for his work and discipline as a player.

Due to Mitrovic's prior commitments at his club, the award - which he won for a third time in his career - was received by his father Ivica.

"I am not there with you, but thanks to all who voted for me. I have been voted the best in Serbia for a third time, it is a big honour as we know the names of the previous laureates. This was a successful year - we have qualified for the EURO after 24 years. Also, I had a nice year individually, I hope I will keep that up. There is no greater honour than when you are appreciated and respected by your own people. This is a reward for the work, order and discipline I am investing in football," Mitrovic said in a video message played at the award ceremony.

For a second time in her career, Violeta Slovic won the annual Golden Ball Award for Best Female Footballer of the Year, established in 2019.

Slovic, who captains Serbia and plays her club football for Spartak Subotica, said she was proud she had never left her country to play abroad.

"I am confident our generation will follow in the footsteps of our men's national football team and compete at major tournaments," she said at the ceremony.