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 |
"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.
Congrats @naomiosaka 🏆 https://t.co/ZAelQHDlIs
— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) May 6, 2021
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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