Andy Murray named Sportsman of the Year by Sports Journalists' Association

Great Britain's Andy Murray is on an award winning spree. The tennis ace was recently honoured with Sunday Mail's Scottish Sports Personality of the Year award and was named International Tennis Federation's (ITF) World Champion for 2016 along with his brother.

And on Thursday (16 December), the Sports Journalists' Association (SJA) named him the Sportsman of the Year. The 29-year-old has had an amazing year, winning his second Wimbledon title, while also claiming his second consecutive gold at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Murray created history by becoming the first person from Great Britain to clinch the world number one spot since computerised rankings were introduced in 1973. He also became the second oldest person to reach the top spot since John Newcombe, who did it in 1974.

While, the Scot was not present to collect his award, he did send across a message of gratitude to both fans and the journalists who picked him for the title.

"Thank you very much for the award and sorry I can't be there today. I'm currently in Miami and although it's nice and sunny, I am in lot of pain right now getting ready for the new season. I appreciate all the support you guys have given me over the years and it means a lot to win an award like this, especially in an Olympic year with so many deserving athletes," Murray said, as quoted by Daily Mail.

"There's plenty for me to work and improve, I'm looking forward to 2017 and beyond. I hope you all have a nice afternoon and a few glasses of wine. Merry Christmas."

Double Olympic gold medal winner, cyclist Laura Kenny was named the Sportswoman of the Year, while Great Britain's women's hockey team that won gold at the Rio Olympics were honoured with the Team of the Year.