The Laureus World Sports Awards, held in Madrid, spotlighted the preeminent athletic talents of 2025, honoring individuals and teams who achieved remarkable feats. Carlos Alcaraz was distinguished as the World Sportsman of the Year, a testament to his exceptional tennis season that included victories at the French Open and U.S. Open, and a year-end No. 1 ranking. His triumph places him in an elite group of tennis icons who have received this prestigious award. Concurrently, Aryna Sabalenka was named World Sportswoman of the Year, recognizing her consistent excellence and strong showings in all four Grand Slams, culminating in a U.S. Open title and a top global ranking.
Beyond tennis, Chloe Kim’s extraordinary prowess in snowboarding earned her the Action Sportsperson of the Year title for the third time. Her 2025 season was marked by multiple X Games halfpipe victories and a World Championships title, underscored by her historic achievement as the first woman to successfully land a double cork 1080 in competition. These accolades not only celebrate individual athletic brilliance but also highlight the diverse range of sports recognized by the Laureus Awards, from traditional disciplines to the dynamic world of action sports.
The ceremony further acknowledged a spectrum of other significant contributions to sports, including Breakthrough awards for rising stars like Lamine Yamal and Lando Norris, and a Comeback award for Rory McIlroy. Paris Saint-Germain received the Team of the Year honor, while Gabriel Araujo was recognized as the Sportsperson with a Disability. Furthermore, the Futbol Mas initiative was lauded with the Sport for Good award, underscoring the positive impact of sports beyond competitive arenas. The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication, perseverance, and passion that define the world's greatest athletes and the unifying power of sports.
These awards not only celebrate individual triumphs but also inspire aspiring athletes globally. They showcase the pinnacle of human endeavor, promoting values of excellence, resilience, and fair play. The recognition of athletes across various categories and the emphasis on social impact projects through sport reinforce the idea that sports are a profound force for good, capable of transforming lives and fostering unity.
