Alcaraz and Sabalenka Named Laureus World Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year

Carlos Alcaraz has been named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year after a landmark season that saw him reclaim the World No.1 ranking and capture Grand Slam titles at the French Open and US Open, alongside a Wimbledon final appearance.

His epic Roland Garros final against fellow nominee Jannik Sinner was hailed as one of the greatest matches of all time, epitomising the blend of achievement and inspiration that defines a Laureus winner.

At just 22, Alcaraz becomes the youngest recipient of the prestigious award, joining the exalted company of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Usain Bolt and Lionel Messi. He previously won the Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award in 2023.

‘What an incredible honour it is to win the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award,’ Alcaraz said. ‘As a tennis player, I compete for titles on the court, but this Laureus Statuette means something more as it’s a recognition among the greatest athletes in the world, across all sport.

‘Three years ago, I received the Laureus Breakthrough Award in Paris and met one of my heroes, Leo Messi. At the time, I dreamt that maybe one day I would join the great Leo Messi on the Sportsman list, and today, I have.’

Alcaraz also paid tribute to his rival.

‘I especially would like to thank Jannik Sinner. If we hadn’t been across the net from each other, pushing the other one so hard, I don’t think either of us would have found the levels we did,’ he said.

There was a one-two for tennis as Aryna Sabalenka received the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award.

The Belarusian star dominated the WTA Tour in 2025, holding the No.1 ranking throughout the year, defending her US Open crown, and reaching finals in Australia and France, where she ended Iga Świątek’s 26-match Roland Garros winning streak. She also claimed WTA 1000 titles in Miami and Madrid.

‘Winning the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award is really special for me,’ Sabalenka said.

‘Honestly, it’s a bit crazy to hear my name next to so many legends. To be recognised by the Laureus Academy means a lot, because they truly understand what it takes to get here. For me, it’s not just about the wins, it’s about everything behind it. The hard moments, the pressure, the team, the work every single day. That’s why this award feels different.’

Sabalenka joins a distinguished list of past winners including Serena Williams, Jennifer Capriati, Justine Henin and Naomi Osaka.