Laureus Awards: Djokovic and Bonmati Reign Supreme
The 25th Laureus World Sports Awards, held on April 22nd, 2024, in Madrid, Spain, saw tennis legend Novak Djokovic and Spanish footballer Aitana Bonmati take center stage.
Djokovic Matches Federer’s Record
Djokovic, currently the world’s No. 1 ranked tennis player, secured his fifth Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award, tying the record previously held by his long-time rival, Roger Federer. The 36-year-old Serb had a remarkable 2023 season, adding three more Grand Slam titles to his collection (Australian Open, French Open, US Open) and reaching the finals at Wimbledon. This accomplishment also allowed him to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles.
Djokovic expressed his honor at receiving the award, reflecting on his journey since winning it for the first time in 2012. He acknowledged the excitement and success the past year brought him and his fans.
A Night for Bonmati and Spanish Football
Aitana Bonmati made history as the first female footballer to win the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year award. Her achievements in 2023 were undeniable. Bonmati was instrumental in leading not only her club, FC Barcelona, to victory in the Liga F and Champions League but also Spain’s national team to their first-ever Women’s World Cup title. She further solidified her status as a powerhouse in women’s football by claiming the World Cup Golden Ball and the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
Spain’s World Cup triumph continued to be celebrated as their national team received the Laureus World Team of the Year award. This marks the first time a women’s team has received this particular honor. Bonmati spoke about the significance of her win, highlighting the importance of being the first footballer to claim the Sportswoman of the Year title and her hope to inspire future generations.
Also Read: Arsenal Thump Chelsea 5-0, Take Charge in Premier League Title Race.
Other Laureus Award Winners
The night also saw awards presented to other deserving athletes. England’s young midfielder Jude Bellingham, who made a significant impact in his first season with Real Madrid, was named the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year. This makes him the first footballer to win this specific award.
Gymnast Simone Biles secured a well-deserved Laureus Comeback of the Year award. After a challenging period following the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Biles returned with a vengeance at the 2023 World Championships, capturing four gold medals.
The Laureus Awards ceremony celebrates the year’s most outstanding athletic achievements across various sports. The awards are presented by a prestigious jury comprised of 69 sporting legends, making them highly coveted prizes in the sporting world.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
