Tennis took center stage at the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards, with Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka crowned Male and Female Athlete of the Year respectively. The star-studded event, held at Madrid’s iconic Palazzo Cibeles, celebrates the best achievements in global sport. What are the Laureus World Sports Awards?Widely regarded as the “Oscars of sport,” the Laureus World Sports Awards celebrate excellence, inspiration and achievement across disciplines.The award was established in 2000 by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and selected by the Laureus World Sports Academy, a committee composed of legendary athletes from around the world. They recognize outstanding performers in categories such as Male Athlete of the Year, Female Athlete of the Year, Team Award, Breakthrough Award and Comeback of the Year Award, while promoting the role of sport in driving positive social change.Carlos Alcaraz’s golden era continuesAt just 22 years old, Carlos Alcaraz continues to define a new era in men’s tennis. His incredible performances, with wins at the French Open, US Open and Australian Open, made him an outstanding candidate for the top honors. His fierce rivalry with Jannik Sinner has become one of the most compelling stories in modern tennis, pushing the boundaries of the sport.“Being recognized by someone who understands the sport so deeply makes it even more meaningful,” Alcaraz said in accepting the award. “This is a night I will never forget, a moment I will always remember.”Aryna Sabalenka’s dominance pays offWorld number one Aryna Sabalenka has been honored after another outstanding season on the WTA Tour. Her dominance in women’s tennis was underlined by her second consecutive US Open title in 2025, her fourth Grand Slam title.An emotional Sabalenka recalled that moment:“I’m shaking right now… It’s crazy knowing that my name is going to be next to these legends that I respect,” Alina said after receiving the Female Athlete of the Year award. The ceremony, hosted by tennis legend Novak Djokovic and freestyle skiing star Aileen Gu, added star power to an already glamorous evening.
