Lydan Debono has won the sixth IZIBET Elite Athlete Award for 2024, recognising his achievements during November and December.
On 9th November, Debono was crowned Blackball World Champion after defeating English player Dean Shields 10-5 in the final, which was held in Malta. Despite losing the first two frames of the best-of-19 final, Debono stayed focused and made an impressive comeback, winning five frames in a row. Although Shields briefly stopped Debono’s run by winning the eighth frame, Debono quickly regained control and won the next three frames, eventually sealing a 10-5 victory with a brilliant clearance in the 15th frame.
Franco de Gabriele, Chief Commercial Officer of IZI Group, praised Debono’s dedication and talent, highlighting how his success on the world stage reflects his hard work. Clinton Buhagiar, President of the Malta Sports Journalists Association, also commended Debono’s bravery and effort, noting that his victory was the result of consistent training and dedication.
The IZIBET Elite Athlete Award recognises outstanding local athletes and is given every two months. A panel of sports journalists and experts evaluates athletes’ achievements during the review periods to ensure a fair assessment.
