Novak Djokovic claims prestigious award in front of Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz

Kevin Palmer
Novak Djokovic with wife Jelena at the Laureus Awards
Novak Djokovic with wife Jelena at the Laureus Awards

Novak Djokovic has claimed his first big prize of 2024 after being named as Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award for a record-equalling fifth time.

The world No 1 pulled out of this week’s Madrid Open tennis event as he preferred to spend more time away from the court, but he was in the Spanish capital with his wife to collect the award.

Seven-time NFL Super Bowl champion Tom Brady handed Djokovic his fifth Laureus award after a sparkling year that saw Djokovic claim Grand Slam titles in the Australian Open, French Open and at the US Open.

He also won the ATP Finals in Turin, while winning another year-end world No 1 ranking despite the rising threat posed to his dominance by the next generation of tennis stars.

“I am incredibly honoured to have won my fifth Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award,” said Djokovic.

“I think back to 2012, when I won it for the first time as a 24-year-old. I am very proud to be here 12 years later, reflecting on a year that brought me and my fans a lot of excitement and success.

“It was thrilling to return to Australia last January and win my 10th title. It is a tournament that is so dear to my heart and set me up for an incredible 12 months.

“I could not have achieved so much success without an incredible team behind me, and inspirational rivals who have always pushed me to be the best version of myself.

“The Laureus Awards are so special because they represent recognition from the 69 world-class athletes who make up the Laureus World Sports Academy. To earn the votes of my sporting heroes is what makes these awards so coveted in all of sport.”

Djokovic’s only defeat in a Grand Slam match last year came against Carlos Alcaraz in an epic Wimbledon final and the young Spaniard who inflicted that defeat was on hand to give out an award at the Laureus.

Alcaraz was delighted to present England and Real Madrid soccer superstar Jude Bellingham with his Breakthrough of the Year award, as he paid this tribute to the young soccer icon.

READ MORE: Why Novak Djokovic may regret his decision to pull out of another tournament

“I won this award last year and it was truly special for me,” said Alcaraz. “It gives an international recognition to our sport.

“Talking about Jude, I’m really he has won this award. He inspires a lot of young athletes like myself and sets a great example for everybody around the world.

“It’s truly amazing to enjoy your game and to see you build your legacy here.”

The Laureus Awards have become one of the most significant prizes for a sporting star to claim, with the star-studded guest list in attendance at this year’s ceremony cementing its position as one of the biggest prizes a sports person can collect.

Full Laureus awards list

Sportsman of the Year: Novak Djokovic

Sportswoman of the Year: Aitana Bonmati

Team of the Year: Spain women’s football team

Breakthrough of the Year: Jude Bellingham

Comeback of the Year: Simone Biles (gymnastics)

Sportsperson of the Year with a disability: Diede de Groot (tennis)

Action Sportsperson of the Year: Arisa Trew (skateboarding)

Sport for Good award: Fundacion Rafa Nadal

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