Laureus World Sports Awards celebrate a milestone 25 years

The Laureus World Sports Awards commemorated its 25th anniversary with a star-studded gala that celebrated the outstanding achievements of athletes from the last year and throughout the 21st century.

This historic event not only honoured the titans of today but also underscored the growth of Laureus as a pioneering movement in sport, encompassing both the illustrious awards and year-round initiatives in over 40 countries under its ‘Sport for Good’ programme.

The night was an extraordinary showcase of athletic excellence, where legendary figures from various disciplines gathered to share the spotlight. Gymnastics luminaries Simone Biles and Rebeca Andrade, both fierce competitors and friends, shone brightly as they took home coveted awards. In a nod to Spanish football’s famed rivalry, the accomplishments of both Real Madrid and Barcelona were celebrated, with young sensation Lamine Yamal recognised as the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year.

Mondo Duplantis, the illustrious pole-vaulting superstar, clinched the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award after years of relentless ambition, marking his first win after three consecutive nominations. “This is the ultimate award that we athletes want to win,” Duplantis remarked, reflecting on the prestige of the Laureus Awards.

In an equally electrifying display, Simone Biles added to her illustrious career by being named Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year for an astounding fourth time. Biles, who referred to her participation in the Paris Games as a “redemption tour,” triumphed with three golds and a silver, solidifying her status as the most decorated gymnast in history.

In recognition of her exceptional comeback from a series of devastating injuries, fellow gymnast Rebeca Andrade took home the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award, heralding her return to the peak of her sport after facing career-threatening setbacks that prompted her to consider retirement.

The Laureus World Sports Awards was not only a night of celebration for elite athletes; it also recognised the impactful work done by organisations like Kick4Life, which received the Laureus Sport for Good Award for its inspirational efforts in using football as a tool for social change.

As the night drew to a close, it became evident that the Laureus World Sports Awards continue to serve as a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and the profound impact of athletic achievement on a global scale.

The full list of Winners is:

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award: Mondo Duplantis

Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award: Simone Biles

Laureus World Team of the Year Award: Real Madrid

Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award: Lamine Yamal

Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award: Rebeca Andrade

Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award: Jiang Yuyan

Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year Award: Tom Pidcock

Laureus Sport for Good Award: Kick4Life

Laureus Sporting Icon Award: Rafael Nadal

Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award: Kelly Slater