World tennis No 1 Rafael Nadal was overjoyed after being voted sportsman of the year at the prestigious Laureus awards here yesterday
World tennis No 1 Rafael Nadal was overjoyed after being voted sportsman of the year at the prestigious Laureus awards here yesterday.
"I cannot be thankful enough for receiving the most prestigious award in the world of the sport," Nadal said.
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| Rafael Nadal with his Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award at the Emirates Palace last night. PIC/Getty Images |
"For me it is an honour to be in front of the best sportsmen of the world," the Spaniard added.
Nadal, who won three Grand Slams last year in another scintillating display of all round tennis, was present at the gala ceremony, hosted by top American actor Kevin Spacey, to accept his award as he is presently out of action with a torn thigh muscle.
Spain had double reason to celebrate as the Spanish football team's World Cup win netted them the team of the year.
American ski superstar Lindsey Vonn got a gentle boost ahead of this week's world alpine skiing championships by winning the sportswoman of the year title.
The World Comeback of the Year Award went to Italy's seven-time motorcycle world champion Valentino Rossi, who returned to the track just 41 days after breaking his leg.
French football legend Zinedine Zidane received the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award. "My wish is to always stay close to football," he said, adding that he hopes to become a manager one day.
