The 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards celebrated its 25th anniversary with a grand ceremony in Madrid, honoring outstanding athletes and teams for their exceptional performances over the past year. The event recognized both individual brilliance and collective achievements across various sports disciplines.
The Laureus World Sports Awards, often dubbed the “Oscars of Sports”, celebrated the most remarkable athletes and sporting achievements of the past year. Held in the vibrant city of Madrid, the 2025 edition of the event brought together legends, rising stars, and game-changers across various disciplines.
Mondo Duplantis: The Vaulting Legend
Mondo Duplantis, the 25-year-old Swedish-American pole vaulter, was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year, a title he clinched for the first time after being nominated three years in a row.
-
Duplantis is hailed as the greatest pole vaulter of all time. He surpassed top contenders like:
- Carlos Alcaraz (Tennis – Spain)
- Léon Marchand (Swimming – France)
- Tadej Pogačar (Cycling – Slovenia)
- Max Verstappen (Formula 1 – Netherlands)
In 2024, Duplantis:
- Won his second World Indoor Championship gold.
- Broke his own world record for the ninth time.
- Won Olympic gold in Paris.
His award was even more memorable with Usain Bolt—the only other track-and-field athlete to win this honour—paying a special tribute to him.
Simone Biles: The Queen Returns
After a period of absence from competition, Simone Biles made a heroic comeback at the Paris Olympics, winning:
- Three gold medals
- One silver medal
She was honoured with the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award, making it her fourth win, a feat that equals Serena Williams’ record.
- This win affirms her status as one of the most decorated gymnasts in history.
- Biles and Duplantis both previously earned the Comeback of the Year honour, showcasing their resilience.
Full List of Laureus World Sports Awards 2025 Winners
Category | Winner |
---|---|
World Sportsman of the Year | Mondo Duplantis |
World Sportswoman of the Year | Simone Biles |
World Team of the Year | Real Madrid |
Breakthrough of the Year | Lamine Yamal |
Comeback of the Year | Rebeca Andrade |
Sportsperson with a Disability | Jiang Yuyan |
Action Sportsperson of the Year | Tom Pidcock |
Sport for Good Award | Kick4Life |
Sporting Icon Award | Rafael Nadal |
Lifetime Achievement Award | Kelly Slater |