Djokovic and Gu to Co-Host 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards
Tennis legend Novak Djokovic and freestyle skiing icon Eileen Gu have been announced as co-hosts of the 27th annual Laureus World Sports Awards, marking the first time two athletes will lead the prestigious ceremony.
The event will take place on April 20 at Madrid’s iconic Palacio de Cibeles and will be broadcast globally to millions of sports fans.
Djokovic, a five-time Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and holder of a record 24 men’s Grand Slam singles titles, expressed his excitement about the role.
‘The Laureus World Sports Awards hold a special place in my heart. They celebrate not just excellence in sport, but the power of sport to make a difference.
‘I have been honoured with five Laureus statuettes over the years. It is always a unique opportunity to mix with athletes from other sports, and meet the sporting heroes who make up the Laureus World Sports Academy.
‘Last year, I was privileged to present Mondo Duplantis with his Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award, and this time I am delighted to be hosting the show with Eileen, a remarkable athlete who also understands the purpose and mission of Laureus.’
Gu, the most decorated freestyle skier in history and winner of the 2023 Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year, echoed his sentiments.
‘The Laureus World Sports Awards are incredibly special to athletes, because they celebrate our achievements in a way nothing else does, through the respect and understanding of our peers, while inspiring millions of young sports fans all over the world.
‘They really are the Athletes’ Awards and winning a Laureus in 2023 was a milestone moment in my career. I was thrilled to return last year to present the Laureus Sport for Good Award to Kick4Life and the Lifetime Achievement Award to Kelly Slater. To now be part of the show as a host, alongside Novak, someone whose journey and accomplishments I’ve admired for so long, is a real honour.’
The ceremony will feature awards across categories including Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, Team of the Year, Breakthrough of the Year and Comeback of the Year. Winners are chosen by the Laureus World Sports Academy, a body of 69 sporting legends whose achievements span generations and disciplines.
