The Laureus World Sports Awards are annual awards honoring individuals and teams from the world of sports along with sporting achievements throughout the year. The awards are presented in a ceremony held each year, with the first ceremony taking place on 25 May 2000 at Monte Carlo. It recognizes remarkable contributions and achievements in the sports world. For sports enthusiasts, the Laureus Award is like the Oscars, but for sports. It celebrates the best of the best, the athletes who've pushed boundaries, broken records, and inspired us all. In 2019, the awards were particularly memorable, showcasing a range of incredible talent across various disciplines. The winners list reads like a who's who of sporting legends and rising stars, each with their own unique story of dedication and triumph. The Laureus Awards not only recognize athletic prowess but also acknowledge the impact these individuals have on society, promoting sportsmanship, and using their platforms for positive change. The event is a blend of glamour, excitement, and heartfelt recognition, bringing together athletes, celebrities, and fans from around the globe to celebrate the power of sports. The awards also highlight the importance of sports in fostering unity, breaking down barriers, and inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams. From breathtaking performances to inspiring acts of resilience, the Laureus Award 2019 captured the essence of what makes sports so captivating and meaningful.

The Biggest Names of Laureus Award 2019

The Laureus World Sports Award for Sportsman of the Year is presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional athletic achievement in the past year. This award celebrates not just winning, but also the spirit of competition, dedication, and fair play. In 2019, two titans of their respective sports shared the stage, marking a historic moment in the award's history. Lionel Messi, the Argentine football maestro, and Lewis Hamilton, the British Formula 1 icon, were both crowned Sportsman of the Year. This tie was unprecedented and underscored the incredible impact both athletes had made in their fields. Messi's unparalleled skill and record-breaking performances with FC Barcelona continued to captivate football fans worldwide. His ability to consistently deliver moments of magic on the pitch solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Hamilton, on the other hand, dominated the Formula 1 circuit with his exceptional driving skills and strategic acumen. His championship-winning season showcased his relentless pursuit of excellence and cemented his legacy as one of the sport's all-time greats. The joint award recognized not only their individual achievements but also their influence and inspiration to millions of people around the world. Both athletes have used their platforms to advocate for important social issues, further amplifying their impact beyond the sports arena. The Laureus Award acknowledged their commitment to excellence, their sportsmanship, and their roles as global ambassadors for their respective sports. This historic moment will be remembered as a testament to the power of sports to unite and inspire.

Laureus Sportswoman of the Year

The Laureus World Sports Award for Sportswoman of the Year recognizes the most outstanding female athlete of the year, celebrating not only their achievements but also their contribution to the world of sports. This award highlights the dedication, skill, and perseverance required to reach the pinnacle of athletic success. In 2019, the award was presented to Simone Biles, the American gymnast who has redefined the boundaries of her sport. Biles's extraordinary talent and groundbreaking performances have made her a global icon, inspiring millions with her grace, strength, and unwavering determination. Her achievements in gymnastics are unparalleled, with numerous world championship titles and Olympic medals to her name. Biles is not only a phenomenal athlete but also a role model, advocating for mental health awareness and using her platform to promote positive change. Her openness about her own struggles has resonated with many, making her a powerful voice for athletes and individuals facing similar challenges. The Laureus Award recognized Biles's exceptional athletic achievements and her impact beyond the gymnastics arena. Her commitment to excellence, her courage to speak out, and her dedication to inspiring others have made her a true champion. The award celebrated her remarkable contributions to the world of sports and her role as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations of athletes. Biles's victory was a testament to her hard work, talent, and unwavering spirit, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.

Team of the Year

The Laureus World Sports Award for Team of the Year celebrates the collective achievement of a sports team that has demonstrated exceptional performance, unity, and teamwork throughout the year. This award recognizes the importance of collaboration, strategy, and shared goals in achieving success in the world of sports. In 2019, the award was presented to the France Men's Football Team, who captured the world's attention with their electrifying performance at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The French team's victory was a testament to their exceptional talent, tactical brilliance, and unwavering team spirit. Led by their star players and guided by their experienced coach, the team showcased a blend of skill, determination, and resilience that captivated fans around the globe. Their journey to the World Cup title was marked by memorable moments, thrilling matches, and a sense of unity that transcended borders. The French team's success was not only a sporting triumph but also a symbol of national pride and unity. Their victory brought together people from all walks of life, celebrating a shared passion for football and a sense of collective achievement. The Laureus Award recognized the French team's exceptional performance, their sportsmanship, and their impact on the world of sports. Their victory served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the power of teamwork, dedication, and belief in achieving extraordinary goals. The French team's legacy will be remembered as a golden era in French football history, marked by their World Cup triumph and their recognition as the Laureus Team of the Year.

Breakthrough of the Year

The Laureus World Sports Award for Breakthrough of the Year is awarded to an individual who has made a significant breakthrough in their sporting career, achieving remarkable success and demonstrating exceptional potential. This award celebrates rising stars who have overcome challenges and emerged as future leaders in their respective sports. In 2019, the award was presented to Naomi Osaka, the Japanese tennis sensation who captured the hearts of fans with her powerful game and inspiring story. Osaka's breakthrough year was highlighted by her victory at the 2018 US Open, where she defeated Serena Williams in a memorable final. Her triumph marked a turning point in her career, propelling her to the top of the women's tennis rankings and establishing her as a global icon. Osaka's success was not only a testament to her talent and hard work but also a reflection of her resilience and determination. She faced numerous challenges throughout her career, overcoming adversity and staying focused on her goals. Her story resonated with many, inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams and never give up. The Laureus Award recognized Osaka's exceptional breakthrough, her impact on the world of tennis, and her role as a role model for aspiring athletes. Her victory was a celebration of her talent, her perseverance, and her unwavering spirit. Osaka's legacy will be remembered as a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the power of sports to transform lives.

Comeback of the Year

The Laureus World Sports Award for Comeback of the Year celebrates an individual who has overcome significant challenges, such as injury or illness, to return to their sport and achieve remarkable success. This award recognizes the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit required to overcome adversity and achieve a triumphant comeback. In 2019, the award was presented to Tiger Woods, the American golf legend who staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history. Woods's career had been plagued by injuries and personal struggles, leading many to believe that he would never return to the top of the game. However, with unwavering determination and relentless hard work, Woods defied the odds and achieved a stunning victory at the 2019 Masters Tournament. His triumph was a testament to his exceptional talent, his mental fortitude, and his unwavering belief in himself. Woods's comeback captivated the world, inspiring fans and athletes alike with his resilience and determination. His story served as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude. The Laureus Award recognized Woods's extraordinary comeback, his impact on the world of golf, and his role as an inspiration to millions. His victory was a celebration of his talent, his perseverance, and his unwavering spirit. Woods's legacy will be remembered as a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the power of sports to transform lives.

Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability

The Laureus World Sports Award for Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability celebrates the achievements of athletes with disabilities who have demonstrated exceptional performance, determination, and sportsmanship. This award recognizes the power of sports to break down barriers, challenge perceptions, and inspire individuals to overcome adversity. In 2019, the award was presented to Henrieta Farkašová, the Slovakian Paralympic skier who has dominated her sport with her exceptional talent and unwavering determination. Farkašová, who is visually impaired, has achieved remarkable success in Paralympic skiing, winning numerous gold medals and world championship titles. Her achievements are a testament to her exceptional skill, her mental fortitude, and her unwavering commitment to excellence. Farkašová's story is an inspiration to athletes with disabilities and to anyone who has faced challenges in their lives. Her success demonstrates that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself. The Laureus Award recognized Farkašová's extraordinary achievements, her impact on the world of Paralympic sports, and her role as a role model for aspiring athletes. Her victory was a celebration of her talent, her perseverance, and her unwavering spirit. Farkašová's legacy will be remembered as a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the power of sports to transform lives.

Action Sportsperson of the Year

The Laureus World Sports Award for Action Sportsperson of the Year recognizes the achievements of athletes who excel in action sports, such as skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, and BMX. This award celebrates the creativity, skill, and daring of these athletes, who push the boundaries of their sports and inspire others with their performances. In 2019, the award was presented to Chloe Kim, the American snowboarder who has taken the snowboarding world by storm with her exceptional talent and infectious personality. Kim, who is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, has achieved remarkable success in halfpipe snowboarding, captivating fans with her innovative tricks and her fearless approach. Her achievements are a testament to her exceptional skill, her dedication to her sport, and her unwavering commitment to excellence. Kim's story is an inspiration to young athletes and to anyone who has a passion for action sports. Her success demonstrates that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks. The Laureus Award recognized Kim's extraordinary achievements, her impact on the world of snowboarding, and her role as a role model for aspiring athletes. Her victory was a celebration of her talent, her perseverance, and her unwavering spirit. Kim's legacy will be remembered as a symbol of innovation, inspiration, and the power of sports to push boundaries.

Conclusion

The Laureus Award 2019 was a night to remember, celebrating the remarkable achievements of athletes from around the world. From Lionel Messi and Lewis Hamilton sharing the Sportsman of the Year award to Simone Biles's dominance in gymnastics and Tiger Woods's incredible comeback, the winners list was a testament to the power of sports to inspire, unite, and transform lives. The awards recognized not only athletic excellence but also the importance of sportsmanship, dedication, and resilience. The Laureus Award serves as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a belief in oneself. The stories of the winners will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and fans, reminding them of the power of sports to make a positive impact on the world.