Laureus World Sports Awards 2024: Mondo Duplantis, Simone Biles Shine Bright - Full List of Winners

Madrid, Apr 22: The stars of the sporting world lit up Madrid as the Laureus World Sports Awards 2024 celebrated the greatest moments and athletes of the year. In a night filled with emotion, triumph, and inspiration, Mondo Duplantis and Simone Biles walked away with top honours, cementing their legendary status in world sport.

The annual ceremony, often dubbed the 'Oscars of Sports', honoured athletes across 10 prestigious categories, each winner embodying excellence, resilience, and the spirit of sportsmanship.

Laureus World Sports Awards 2024 Mondo Duplantis Simone Biles Shine Bright - Full List of Winners

Duplantis and Biles Take Top Honours

Swedish-American pole vault sensation Mondo Duplantis was crowned the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year, finally securing the award after three previous nominations. The 25-year-old rewrote the history books by breaking his own world record for the ninth time in 2024, while also claiming Olympic gold in Paris. He became only the second track-and-field athlete, after Usain Bolt, to win this coveted award.

"I am incredibly honoured to have won my first Laureus Award in the sporting capital of Madrid," Duplantis said. "To have Usain Bolt pay tribute to me makes it even more special."

American gymnast Simone Biles continued her legacy with her fourth Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award, equalling Serena Williams' record. After stepping away from the sport due to mental health challenges, Biles returned triumphantly at the Paris Olympics, winning three golds and one silver in a stunning comeback.

"I'm so happy to be here in Madrid and to receive my fourth Laureus award," Biles said. "This honour means everything to me."

Rebeca Andrade and Lamine Yamal Among Breakout Winners

Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade won the Comeback of the Year award for her inspiring return from multiple ACL injuries. She clinched gold in the floor exercise at the Paris Games after years of struggle and near-retirement.

Spanish football prodigy Lamine Yamal was named Breakthrough of the Year. The teenager became the youngest player to both play in and score at a European Championship final, and was voted the tournament's Best Young Player.

Rafael Nadal, Kelly Slater Receive Special Honours

Spanish tennis great Rafael Nadal received the Sporting Icon Award in the year he bid farewell to professional tennis. A former Breakthrough winner in 2006, Nadal's emotional tribute to sport resonated deeply with fans.

Surfing legend Kelly Slater, 11-time world champion, was awarded the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his unmatched contribution to action sports over decades.