The best in swimming and diving were honoured at a grand gala in Canada. FINA, the world governing body in aquatics, recognizing the top male and female competitors -- and most of the sport's leading athletes from Rio 2016 would be big winners. That included Chinese divers Shi Tingmao, and Chen Aisen.

Shi Tingmao, was the Olympic champ in the three-metre individual and synchronized springboard events.

Chen Aisen, won two golds in Rio, and each were named best in their categories for 2016.

Chen Ruolin earned the most improved award.

Liu Ben, the coach of the two diving champions, was also recognized.

American Michael Phelps, and Katinka Hosszu of Hungary, won the male and female athletes of the year in swimming. Phelps claimed six medals, including five golds, in Rio, while Hosszu nabbed three titles, breaking one world record and one Olympic mark at the Games.