Novak Djokovic Wins Fifth Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award

Novak Djokovic has been named the 2023 Laureus World Sportsman of the Year, winning the prestigious award for a record-equalling fifth time. The 36-year-old Serbian tennis star was honoured at the Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony held in Madrid, Spain on April 22, 2024.

Djokovic's remarkable 2023 season, which saw him capture the Australian Open, French Open, and US Open titles, was the driving force behind this recognition.

He came close to achieving the rare calendar-year Grand Slam, only missing out on the feat with a loss at Wimbledon. Djokovic also claimed a record seventh Nitto ATP Finals title and secured the year-end No. 1 ranking for a record eighth time.

In his acceptance speech, Djokovic expressed appreciation for the honor, saying, "I'm incredibly honored to have won the Laureus Sportsman of the Year award for the fifth time. I could not have achieved such success without my team, my rivals who continue to push me to be the best version of myself, and of course, my family." He acknowledged the impressive list of previous winners and stated that being the first footballer to receive this award makes it even more special.

Why this matters: Djokovic's fifth Laureus Sportsman of the Year award solidifies his status as one of the greatest athletes of his generation. His continued success and longevity at the highest level of tennis serve as an inspiration to aspiring players worldwide.

Other notable winners at the Laureus World Sports Awards included Aitana Bonmatí, who became the first footballer to be named Sportswoman of the Year after leading Spain to victory at the 2023 Women's World Cup. The Spanish women's national soccer team was also recognized as the World Team of the Year. Jude Bellingham won the Breakthrough of the Year award, while Simone Biles was honored with the Comeback of the Year award.

The Laureus Sport for Good Award was presented to the Rafael Nadal Foundation for its work in empowering vulnerable young people through sport and education in Spain and India. Nadal, who was present at the ceremony, expressed his pride in the foundation's achievements.

Djokovic, who currently holds a 22-4 match record in 2024, reached the semifinals of the Australian Open and the Monte Carlo Masters earlier this year. As he continues his pursuit of more Grand Slam titles and records, the Laureus Sportsman of the Year award serves as a fitting tribute to his unparalleled achievements and dedication to his craft.

Key Takeaways

• Novak Djokovic has won his 5th Laureus Sportsman of the Year award.
• Djokovic had a remarkable 2023 season, winning 3 Grand Slams.
• Aitana Bonmatí named Sportswoman of the Year, Spain's women's team won the Team award.
• Jude Bellingham won Breakthrough of the Year, and Simone Biles won the Comeback award.
• Nadal Foundation honored for empowering youth through sport and education.