Laureus Awards celebrate McIlroy and Norris as tennis and golf stars honoured

The prestigious Laureus World Sport Awards celebrated the finest athletic achievements of the past year on Monday, with golf star Rory McIlroy and Formula 1 driver Lando Norris among the distinguished winners at the ceremony held in Madrid.

McIlroy was named World Sportsman of the Year after a remarkable 2025 season that saw him win his second Masters title and claim his fifth major championship overall. The Northern Irishman held off stiff competition from Olympic champion and world number one to claim the coveted award, cementing his status as one of golf's all-time greats.

"This award means everything to me," McIlroy said in his acceptance speech. "Golf has given me so much, and to be recognized among the greatest athletes in the world is incredibly humbling. I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career."

Norris was honored with the World Breakthrough of the Year award after his maiden Formula 1 World Championship victory last season. The McLaren driver became the youngest British champion in F1 history, ending Max Verstappen's dominant run with a stunning late-season charge that captured the imagination of motorsport fans worldwide.

"It's surreal to be here among such incredible athletes," Norris said. "Last season was a dream come true, and to have it recognized like this is something I'll never forget. I want to keep pushing and achieve even more."

The awards ceremony, hosted by sports broadcaster Suzanna Walters, brought together stars from across the sporting spectrum. Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz received the World Comeback of the Year award after returning from injury to win multiple titles, including a emotional French Open triumph.

The Laureus World Sports Awards, now in their 26th year, recognize excellence in sport and use the power of sport to address social issues worldwide. Each year, the awards celebrate the greatest sporting achievements and moments that have defined the previous 12 months.

Other winners included Olympic swimming champion Katie Ledecky and Paralympic legend Marcel Hug, whose remarkable performances across multiple Games have made him one of the most decorated wheelchair athletes in history.