Andrea Becerra and her coach, Karen Montellano, were among the standout honourees at the National Sports Award 2025 ceremony, held on 28 November at the National Palace in Mexico City, where President Claudia Sheinbaum recognised the athletes and coaches who have defined Mexico’s sporting success this year.
Their awards – Becerra in the non-professional sports category and Montellano in the coach category – highlight both the strength of their partnership and the impact of a breakthrough season for Mexican archery.
“I can’t believe this moment is real,” Becerra said after the ceremony. “I cried with emotion because each arrow was more than just a shot; it was hope, effort and dreams come true.”
“This award isn’t just mine – it belongs to every late training, every moment of doubt… and everyone who believed in me.”
The sport’s remarkable year has already been recognised on 26 November when the Best of Mexican Sport 2025 financial incentives were awarded to medallists at world championships, with Becerra, Sebastian Garcia, Angela Ruiz, Mariana Bernal and Adriana Castillo among the honourees.
Becerra capped an extraordinary season with her first World Cup victory and a historic gold medal at the Gwangju 2025 Hyundai World Archery Championships, becoming the first Mexican woman to win an individual world title in compound archery. These achievements cemented her status as the world number one in her category and brought renewed attention to a discipline set to debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
In addition to her national recognition, Becerra received two other honours this month.
She was named recipient of the Jalisco State Sports Award on 19 November, recognising regional athletes for their achievements throughout the year, and was acknowledged by state authorities for representing Jalisco on the international stage. She also received the Victory Prize Mexico 2025 on 25 November, recognised in the Undiscovered category for her achievements in compound archery.
Established in 1975, the National Sports Award is Mexico’s highest sporting distinction. Honourees receive a diploma bearing the Mexican President’s signature, a medal and a financial reward. Current categories include non-professional sport, professional sport, Paralympic sport, coach, referee, sports career, and promotion and development of sport.
Together, these distinctions highlight the strength, discipline and visibility of Mexican archery – and the pride the sport continues to inspire across the country.
