MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 22: Aitana Bommatti of Barcelona FC poses for a photo with Laureus … [+]
Midfielder Aitana Bommatti has been named Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year for her key role in Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory and an impressive season with Barcelona.
Bommatti won the Golden Ball, which is awarded to the best player, at last year’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand, when Spain were crowned world champions after defeating England 1-0 in the final. The 26-year-old played in every match of the tournament and became a key part of the team.
She also helped Barcelona win their second Champions League trophy in the 2022-23 season, won FIFA’s The Best Award and the Ballon d’Or Award, and is one of the best players in the women’s game. established its position as
Sydney, Australia – August 20: Spain’s Aitana Bommatti wins FIFA Golden Ball Award … [+]
Bonmati became the first soccer player to be named Laureus Sportswoman of the Year and took to the stage twice on Monday as Spain was named to the Laureus World Team of the Year, the first all-female team to win the prestigious award. Ta.
“It’s an honor to receive the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year Award. I’m also very happy that my international team-mates have been recognized as Team of the Year by the Laureus World Sports Academy,” said Bommatti in Madrid. He spoke at the event. .
“Being the first footballer to win this award makes it even more special and I hope to represent my sport in the same way that the great champions did.”
Bommati joins an elite list that includes Serena Williams, Simone Biles, Lindsey Vonn, Naomi Osaka and last year’s winner Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.
“They are all incredible athletes who not only excelled in their chosen sport, but also served as great role models for younger generations of young women and girls,” Bonmati said of them.
Ivana Andres of Spain and Real Madrid lifts the trophy with her team after winning the FIFA Women’s Championship … [+]
The midfielder also praised the Spanish players who overcame a group stage exit at the World Cup to win their first world title.
“As the first women’s team to win the Laureus Award, we are proud of our pioneering status and, as a group, are as committed to equality and representation as we are to our work on the football pitch. I’m here.”
Novak Djokovic was named Laureus Sportsman of the Year for the fifth time, tying Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles after winning the US Open last September.
England’s Jude Bellingham, who had an excellent debut season with Real Madrid, was named the best player of the year, becoming the first footballer to win the award.
Gymnast Simone Biles won the Comeback of the Year award after winning four gold medals at last year’s world championships, her first international competition since withdrawing from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics after struggling with her mental health. was awarded.
