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The award is handed out to someone “who affected the news or our lives the most, for better, or worse” the magazine has previously said.
Other contenders for the title of global influence included Elon Musk, the US Supreme Court, China’s leader Xi Jinping and protesters in Iran.
“In a world that had come to be defined by its divisiveness, there was a coming together around this cause, around this country that some outside it might not be able to find on a map.”
They added the former actor, who stayed to defend his country despite international appeals to evacuate and get to a safe haven, used his knowledge of captivating public interest across headlines and social media.
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“Zelensky has been laser-focused on keeping the world’s eyes on Ukraine,” Felsenthal wrote.
“The former entertainer understood innately that attention is the planet’s most valuable currency and all but cornered the global market.”
The magazine also praised the individuals who helped exemplify the spirit of the nation and those getting involved to help.
From a famous Ukrainian chef feeding thousands to journalists on the ground risking their lives to share stories along with international medics coming into the war-torn country to assist with aide all getting a mention.
