Djokovic, Bonmatí Receive Laureus World Sports Awards
Spain's first Women's World Cup triumph last year earned two more major awards at the Laureus World Sports Awards on April 22.
Spain's soccer team was chosen as world team of the year for 2023 and team member Aitana Bonmatí was picked as the best sportswoman.
Novak Djokovic received the sportsman of the year award at the ceremony in Madrid, and American gymnast Simone Biles was given the comeback of the year award.
Real Madrid forward Jude Bellingham earned the breakthrough prize, and Rafael Nadal won the sport for good award thanks to his foundation.
The Spanish women's World Cup breakthrough last August in New Zealand and Australia was tarnished in the following weeks because of an unwanted kiss team member Jenni Hermoso received from then-federation president Luis Rubiales after the final.
However, Laureus rewarded Spain as the first all-female team to win the team award.
Before the World Cup, Bonmatí also helped Barcelona win a second Women's Champions League. She's the first female soccer player to win best sportswoman, after also receiving the Ballon d'Or and FIFA best player award.
"I want to thank all my teammates and the staff of my club and national team who have helped me a lot, and because of them I am here today," Bonmatí said.
Djokovic won his record-equalling fifth Laureus sportsman award — tying Roger Federer — after winning titles at the Australian Open, French Open and US Open to reach a record 24 Grand Slam singles triumphs. Former National Football League star Tom Brady presented Djokovic with the award.
Biles made a record-breaking return to competition last year when she won four gold medals at the world championships, including a record sixth all-around title.
Nadal's foundation was rewarded for helping more than "1,000 vulnerable young people in Spain and India," according to Laureus.