At the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards, held in Madrid on April 21, tennis legend Novak Djokovic took center stage; not as a winner this time, but as a presenter and elder statesman of elite sport. Fresh off a monumental 2024 season that included an emotional Olympic gold medal in Paris, Djokovic returned to the Laureus stage as the outgoing World Sportsman of the Year, a title he held in 2024. He passed the honor to Swedish pole vaulter Armand "Mondo" Duplantis, who was recognized for his stellar year that included an Olympic gold and two world records.
Novak Djokovic’s appearance at the gala was marked by reflection and celebration. He spoke candidly about his Olympic triumph, calling it “the greatest achievement of my career.” At age 37, the Serbian star finally captured the one title that had long eluded him, after falling short in previous Olympic campaigns. “It was like a movie,” he said. “The entire journey to that medal, the way it unfolded... I will never forget it.”
I have more motivation to do well in Grand Slams: Novak Djokovic opens up on his future aspirations
Although the evening was focused on celebrating past accomplishments, Djokovic’s presence naturally invited speculation about what lies ahead. While he didn’t go into detail about his future at the Laureus Awards, he has emphasized his intention to remain competitive in Grand Slam tournaments. He acknowledged that in order to continue performing at the highest level, he plans to reduce the number of tournaments he plays, focusing solely on major events. His eyes remain firmly fixed on a historic 25th Grand Slam title.
He said, “I still feel the desire the play, the passion to compete is always there. I hope to push harder.” He went to add about his Grand Slam aspirations by saying, “The Grand Slams are tournaments where I have more motivation to do well.” While he may have handed over the Sportsman of the Year trophy, Djokovic reminded the world that he is far from done writing his own chapter in the history of sport. As the Olympic gold glistens on his resume, the tennis world waits to see what new heights the Serbian icon will reach next.
