On April 21, Madrid became the epicenter of the sports world with the celebration of the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards. In its 25th edition, the prestigious event brought together the biggest stars in sports at the Palacio de Cibeles, where eight silver statuettes were awarded to the most outstanding athletes of the year.
Among the night’s big winners were Paris 2024 Olympic champions Armand Duplantis, Simone Biles, and Rebeca Andrade, who were recognized for their exceptional achievements over the past year.
Armand Duplantis and Simone Biles, the main stars
Sweden’s Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year after his historic performance at Paris 2024, where he defended his Olympic pole vault title and broke the world record for the ninth time. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of award, and I’m not going to take it for granted,” Duplantis said upon receiving his statuette.
Meanwhile, Simone Biles was honored as Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year for the fourth time, following her outstanding performance at the Paris Olympics, where she broke records and reaffirmed her place as one of the greatest gymnasts in history.
Rebeca Andrade and Lamine Yamal, examples of youth
Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade received the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award for her inspiring recovery from injuries that led her to shine at Paris 2024. Andrade shared her recognition with her teammate and rival Simone Biles, highlighting the camaraderie between competitors.
Seventeen-year-old Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal was awarded the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award after his remarkable performance at the 2024 UEFA European Championship, where he became a hero for Spain.
Rafael Nadal, Kelly Slater and their careers
Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal received the Laureus Sporting Icon Award, becoming only the second athlete in history to earn this recognition. Nadal, who announced his retirement in 2024, expressed his gratitude for the award and emphasized the importance of inspiring others through sports.
American surfer Kelly Slater was honored with the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award for his legendary career, which includes 11 world titles. Slater highlighted the value of being recognized by his peers and the impact of sports on society.
Winners of the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards
- 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 Yuyan
- 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
