He has racked up Olympic Games and World Championship gold, Gunde Svan. During the Sports Gala, the skiing icon was hailed with the sports academy's honorary award.
When he took the stage together with his serviceman Ferdinand "Ferry" Grill, Svan broke down in tears.
There are many in here who have experienced the journey that I've been on a few times, and there are many who have realized that how it looks around you is crucial for how it's going to go. And "Big-Ferry" is one of the prerequisites, says Svan.
He has been absolutely crucial.
After which he said he was looking forward to being a full-time grandfather - and spoke from the stage to his wife Marie, who was sitting at one of the tables.
My first girlfriend who also became my wife, for 35 years. Without you, Marie, this would never have worked. Thanks for existing.
Hope you'll be with me for another 35 years.
