ATLANTA (AP) — Josef Martinez choked up a bit when he saw his grandparents in the front row.
On most days, he's not susceptible to tears.
This time, he couldn't help himself.
A teary eyed Martinez claimed the MVP award from Major League Soccer on Wednesday after shattering the record for goals in a season and leading Atlanta United to the championship game.
While he normally speaks through a translator, the 25-year-old Venezuelan gave the first part of his acceptance speech in English.
"This is a special day for me, for my family, for my teammates, for the city," Martinez said, without the benefit of notes.