MADRID: Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis and American gymnast Simone Biles were crowned top athletes at the Laureus World Sports Awards held Monday in Madrid. The ceremony marked the 25th anniversary of the prestigious event.
Duplantis, 25, a double Olympic champion and world record holder, was named Sportsman of the Year, edging out nominees including tennis legend Novak Djokovic, Formula One champion Max Verstappen, and swimmer Leon Marchand.
He became the second track and field athlete after Usain Bolt to win the honor.
Biles secured the Sportswoman of the Year award for a record-equalling fourth time, tying Serena Williams.
She was recognized for her stellar performance at the Paris Olympics, where she claimed three gold medals and one silver.
“I won this award for the first time in 2017, and Laureus has been a part of my story since then,” Biles said. “There might be a little girl watching someone like me on television and deciding she can do it, too.”
Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade won the Comeback of the Year award after returning from injury to win gold in the floor event at the Paris Games.
Spanish football star Lamine Yamal, 17, was named Breakthrough of the Year after a standout debut season for club and country, including a Euro 2024 win with Spain.
Real Madrid received the Team of the Year award following their La Liga title and 15th UEFA Champions League victory.
Rafael Nadal, who retired from professional tennis in November 2024, was honored with the Sports Icon award, while surfing legend Kelly Slater received the Lifetime Achievement award.
[Reported by Arab News]
