Cody Simpson was like any smitten and proud partner, as Emma McKeown was crowned Young Australian of the Year.
The Australian Olympic legend capped off her golden career with the prestigious Australian Honors Award – which she received from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra on Thursday evening.
After breaking all records in 2022 and wowing the world at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, the award was long overdue.
McKeown was also a big part of Australia's historic victory at the 2023 World Swimming Championships as the Australian team walked away with five world records and 13 gold medals – only the second time since the 1956 Melbourne Olympics that Australia has beaten the United States in the medal count. From a major international meeting.
While 2023 may not have been her best year in pool, McKeown's heroics at the 2022 Commonwealth Games alone were worthy of recognition as Young Australian of the Year.
McKeown is the most successful athlete in Commonwealth Games history with 11 gold medals. In the Birmingham swimming pool alone, she won six gold medals and one bronze.
The 29-year-old is also Australia's most decorated Olympian with 11 medals – five gold, two silver and four bronze.
Now her antics are getting the appreciation they deserve.
Which is why Australian pop star turned swimmer Cody Simpson was left gushing over his partner on Thursday night.
Simpson, who won a gold medal at the 2022 Olympics as part of the Australian relay team, posted a touching message about his partner on Instagram as he filmed his TV watching the Australia Day tribute ceremony live.
“Oh, it looks good,” he said from behind the camera as McKeown walked to the stage.
“The most special human being @emmamckeon. Congratulations my love. “So proud of you,” he wrote.
“I apologize for the intrusive comment. I'm home alone.”
McKeon was classy in her speech.
“I feel very humbled and honored to receive this award, especially when you consider the caliber and accomplishments of the other nominees,” she said.
McKeown said it was a great honor to receive the award, and he hoped it would inspire children to achieve their sporting dreams.
“I have been swimming for a long time, and I grew up being inspired by amazing athletes, who lit a fire in my belly to achieve my dreams and do something great through sheer determination and hard work.” He said.
“So, from that little girl to today, it's still crazy for me to do what I have in sports. And I want the little kids to know that I was in the same position they are in one day — dreaming of doing something big one day.”
“I want to have an impact on people's lives by encouraging them to do their best and pursue their dreams and what they are passionate about.
“Don't be afraid to face the tough things and set ambitious goals, as that can be scary sometimes. This is how we push ourselves to achieve our dreams.
Originally published as Cody Simpson pays moving tribute as Emma McKeown crowned Young Australian of the Year
