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    Friday, May 7, 2021

    Nadal, Naomi Osaka Win Top Laureus Awards

    Tennis stars Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal were the major winners at the 2021 Laureus World Sports Awards.

    Nadal, who won a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title and his 13th French Open back in October, was named World Sportsman of the Year for the second time.

    It is his fourth Laureus honour, having also previously scooped the Breakthrough and Comeback awards.

    Naomi Osaka wins Laureus Sports Award (Getty Images) Handout/Laureus via Getty Images
    "The rest of the sportsmen probably deserve the trophy the same as me, but this was the year for me and I can’t be happier," said Nadal.

    "It means a lot to equal my great rival, but at the same time, my great friend. It's something very special after all the history we have had together on and off court."

    Laureus hailed Osaka's "powerful statement" at the US Open, where she won a second title, to support the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign as she highlighted racial injustice by wearing different face masks at her matches bearing the names of African Americans who died in recent years.

    "I think it is important to use my voice," said 23-year-old Osaka.

    The digital awards ceremony in Seville also recognised tennis great Billie Jean King, who received the Lifetime Achievement award.

    LIST OF WINNERS

    • Sportsman of the Year Award: Rafael Nadal
    • Sportswoman of the Year Award: Naomi Osaka
    • Team of the Year Award: Bayern Munich
    • Breakthrough of the Year Award: Patrick Mahomes
    • Comeback of the Year Award: Max Parrot
    • Sport for Good Award: KICKFORMORE by KICKFAIR
    • Lifetime Achievement Award: Billie Jean King
    • Athlete Advocate of the Year Award: Lewis Hamilton
    • Sporting Inspiration Award: Mohamed Salah
    • Sporting Moment of the Year Award: Chris Nikic

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