The 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards, held on 21st April at the Palacio de Cibeles in Madrid, celebrated its 25th anniversary by honoring exceptional athletes and teams for their outstanding achievements and contributions to sports
MAJOR AWARD WINNERS
World Sportsman of the Year: Swedish pole vaulter Armand “Mondo” Duplantis clinched this prestigious title after securing his second Olympic gold in Paris and setting a new world record of 6.27 meters.
World Sportswoman of the Year: American gymnast Simone Biles earned her fourth Laureus award, tying Serena Williams’ record. Her remarkable comeback at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she won three golds and a silver, was a testament to her resilience
Team of the Year: Real Madrid was recognized for its exceptional performance in European football, adding another accolade to its illustrious history.
Breakthrough of the Year: Spanish football prodigy Lamine Yamal received this award after playing a pivotal role in Spain’s European Championship victory.
Comeback of the Year: Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade was honored for her triumphant return to the sport, culminating in a gold medal at the Paris Olympics following significant injuries.
SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS
Sporting Icon Award: Retired tennis legend Rafael Nadal was celebrated for his illustrious career, which includes 22 Grand Slam titles and two Olympic gold medals.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Surfing great Kelly Slater received this honor, acknowledging his enduring impact on the sport.
Sportsperson with a Disability: Chinese Paralympic swimmer Jiang Yuyan was recognized for her outstanding performances.
Sport for Good Award: Kick4Life, a football-based charity in Lesotho, was honored for its efforts in transforming the lives of young people through sport
Action Sportsperson of the Year: British cyclist Tom Pidcock earned this title for his achievements in action sports.
LAUREUS WORLD SPORTS AWARDS 2025 – WINNERS LIST
Category | Winner |
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 Yuya |
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 |