The 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards have unveiled their nominations, spotlighting exceptional female athletes contending for the prestigious ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ title. Among the distinguished nominees is Belarusian tennis sensation Aryna Sabalenka, recognized for her remarkable achievements over the past year.
Sabalenka’s ascent in the tennis world has been nothing short of extraordinary. In 2024, she clinched two major singles titles at the Australian Open and the US Open, elevating her to the pinnacle of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings as the world No. 1 in singles. Her aggressive playing style and powerful serve have made her a formidable opponent on the court. Beyond her singles success, Sabalenka has also showcased her prowess in doubles, securing titles at the 2019 US Open and the 2021 Australian Open alongside partner Elise Mertens.
Joining Sabalenka in the ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ category is American gymnast Simone Biles, whose resilience and excellence have inspired many. After a brief hiatus, Biles made a triumphant return to gymnastics, earning accolades such as the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year in 2023 and the Laureus World Sports Award for Comeback of the Year in 2024. citeturn0search23
American track and field athlete Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is also among the nominees. Renowned for her dominance in the 400 meters hurdles, McLaughlin-Levrone has set world records and consistently showcased her athletic excellence on the global stage.
Kenyan middle-distance runner Faith Kipyegon, another nominee, has solidified her status as one of the all-time greats in her discipline. Her consistent performances and medal hauls at major championships have been a testament to her dedication and skill.
Dutch athlete Sifan Hassan’s versatility across various track events has earned her a spot among the nominees. Her ability to compete and excel in multiple distances has made her a standout figure in athletics.
Spanish footballer Aitana Bonmatí completes the list of nominees. As a pivotal player for FC Barcelona Femení, Bonmatí has been instrumental in her team’s successes, including domestic league titles and European competitions.
The Laureus World Sports Awards, often dubbed the ‘Oscars of Sport,’ are set to take place on April 21, 2025, at the Palacio de Cibeles in Madrid. This 25th-anniversary edition will celebrate the outstanding achievements of athletes from around the globe. citeturn0news21
Each nominee in the ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ category has made significant contributions to their respective sports, embodying excellence, resilience, and the spirit of competition. The upcoming awards ceremony promises to be a celebration of these remarkable athletes and their inspiring journeys.