Thomas Morgenstern was named "Sports Ambassador 2014" at the 16th annual "Cristall Gala" of the Austrian Sports Organization (BSO).

"Austria can be proud of Thomas Morgenstern. As one of the most successful ski jumpers ever he captivated thousands of people and with his mental strength he proved again and again that he is a top athlete. Even after setbacks and injuries he kept following his successful path. I have the greatest respect for his achievements!", Herbert Koch, president of the BSO, said to the Austrian Press Agency (APA).

The title "Sports Ambassador" is annually awarded to personalities who made a great contribution to Austrian sports. Besides the 28-year-old former ski jumper, also Alpine Skier Marlies Schild, who retired this year as well, received the award 2014.