ABU DHABI – Spain had double reason to celebrate at the prestigious Laureus awards here on Monday as world tennis number one Rafael Nadal was voted sportsman of the year and 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 championmships by winning the sportswoman of the year title. German golfer Martin Kaymer’s fabulous year, which included his first major – the US PGA Championship, saw him win the World Breakthrough of the Year Award.
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.
Vonn earned her award after a stunning year in which she secured her third straight skiing World Cup and the Olympic downhill gold medal. 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.
