Simone Biles’ Record-Tying Award
Simone Biles was named the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year, triumphing over a highly competitive field that included Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí (FC Barcelona and the Spanish national football team), Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands (athletics), Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon (athletics), Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone of the USA (athletics), and Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus (tennis).
This win marks Biles’ fifth career Laureus Award, tying her with tennis legend Serena Williams. It is also her fourth time receiving the Sportswoman of the Year honor, having previously won in 2017, 2019, and 2020. In 2024, Biles was recognized with the Laureus Comeback of the Year Award for her remarkable return to elite gymnastics.
Rebeca Andrade: Comeback of the Year
Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade made a remarkable comeback at the 2024 Paris Olympics, overcoming a series of injuries—including multiple ACL tears—that had nearly ended her career. Defying the odds, she returned to the sport in spectacular fashion, winning four medals in Paris: silver in the all-around and vault, gold in the floor exercise, and helping Brazil secure a bronze in the team competition.
Her incredible performance brought her Olympic medal tally to six, including two from the 2020 Tokyo Games, making her the most decorated gymnast in Brazilian and Latin American history.
In the Laureus Comeback of the Year category, Andrade stood out among a strong list of nominees, which included Caeleb Dressel (USA, swimming), Lara Gut-Behrami (Switzerland, alpine skiing), Marc Márquez (Spain, motorcycling), Rishabh Pant (India, cricket), and Ariarne Titmus (Australia, swimming).
Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year With a Disability
Chinese Paralympic swimmer Yuyan Jiang was honored with the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability award, recognizing her exceptional performances and inspirational impact on the world stage.
Jiang delivered a standout performance at the 2023 World Para Swimming Championships, where she dominated the pool with multiple gold medals across various events. Known for her strength, technique, and determination, she has become a leading figure in para sport, not only for her medal haul but also for her role in raising visibility and inspiring others with disabilities.
This prestigious recognition by Laureus highlights not just her athletic excellence but also her resilience and influence, solidifying her place among the elite in global sport.
Laureus Sport for Good Award
Kick4Life, a pioneering football-based charity from Lesotho, was honored with the 2025 Laureus Sport for Good Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes the organization’s transformative work in using sport to empower vulnerable youth and drive social change in Southern Africa.
Other Award Recipients
World Sportsman of the Year: Armand “Mondo” Duplantis (Sweden, Pole Vault)
Team of the Year: Real Madrid (Spain, Football)
Breakthrough of the Year: Lamine Yamal (Spain, Football)
Action Sportsperson of the Year: Tom Pidcock (UK, Cycling)
Sporting Icon Award: Rafael Nadal (Spain, Tennis)
The ceremony underscored the global impact of sport, celebrating athletes who have not only achieved excellence in their disciplines but have also inspired and effected positive change worldwide.
