The 26th edition of the Laureus World Sports Awards took place on April 21, 2025, at the stunning Galería de Cristal in the Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid. This prestigious event, often dubbed the "Oscars of Sports," celebrated the best athletes and teams from the past year, showcasing remarkable achievements across various sports.
Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, graced the event alongside several members of the municipal government, emphasizing the city's commitment to hosting significant international events. The gala was broadcast globally, further solidifying Madrid's reputation as a prime location for high-profile sports ceremonies.
This year’s awards highlighted outstanding performances from 2024, with Real Madrid being honored as the Best Team of the Year. The football club's success in both domestic and international competitions has made it a standout performer in the sports world.
Among the individual accolades, pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis and artistic gymnast Simone Biles were recognized as the Best Male and Female Athletes of the Year, respectively. Duplantis's incredible feats in pole vaulting have captivated audiences worldwide, while Biles continues to break barriers and set new standards in gymnastics.
Additionally, young football star Lamine Yamal was celebrated as the Best Breakthrough Athlete of the Year, a testament to his rapid rise in the sport and his impactful performances on the pitch. Rafael Nadal received the prestigious Sports Icon award, honoring his legendary career and contributions to tennis.
Rebeca Andrade was awarded for the Best Comeback, reflecting her resilience and determination to return to top form after facing challenges. In the category of athletes with disabilities, swimmer Jiang Yuyan was recognized for her exceptional achievements, showcasing the incredible talent present in adaptive sports.
The Laureus Award for Lifetime Achievement went to surfing legend Kelly Slater, whose influence on the sport has been profound and lasting. Cycling star Tom Pidcock was awarded the Laureus for Best Action Sportsman of the Year, highlighting his thrilling performances and contributions to the cycling community.
In addition to individual and team awards, the Laureus Sport for Good Award was presented to Kick4Life, an organization that uses football as a tool for social change in Lesotho, Africa. This initiative has positively impacted the lives of over 250,000 young people since its inception in 2005, demonstrating the transformative power of sports.
The event was not just about accolades; it was a celebration of sportsmanship, resilience, and the unifying power of sports across the globe. Attendees included athletes, celebrities, and dignitaries, all coming together to honor the extraordinary achievements of the past year.
As the night unfolded, the atmosphere was electric, with heartfelt speeches and emotional moments that resonated with everyone present. The Laureus World Sports Awards continue to inspire future generations of athletes, reminding them of the heights that can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and passion.
This year’s ceremony was a resounding success, and as the awards were handed out, it was clear that the spirit of sports was alive and well, celebrated in the heart of Madrid.
