Novak Djokovic is in contention to equal Roger Federer’s record at the Laureus Awards. He aims to secure his fifth title as Sportsman of the Year. The 25th edition of the ceremony will be held at Madrid’s Cibeles Palace on April 22.
Madrid gears up to host a gathering of global sports stars at this annual event. It celebrates distinguished achievements across various sports.
Djokovic, a central figure in tennis, previously won the Laureus Award in 2012, 2015, 2016, and 2019. His stellar 2023 performance, which included three Grand Slam titles and the ATP Finals, highlights his nomination. He also reached the Wimbledon final and ended the year as the top-ranked player for the eighth time.
Tennis consistently features at the Laureus Awards, with the ‘Big Three’—Djokovic, Federer, and Rafael Nadal—regularly recognized. Nadal last won the award in 2021.
This year, Djokovic faces stiff competition from Lionel Messi and Formula 1’s Max Verstappen. Athletics stars Armand Duplantis, Noah Lyles, and footballer Erling Haaland are nominated.
Djokovic expressed gratitude for his nomination, noting the honour of being part of such an esteemed group.
Other tennis figures nominated include Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, with the Rafa Nadal Foundation also recognized for its sports contributions.