The world’s greatest sporting rivalry could once again take centre stage—this time off the court. Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are set to duel for one of sport’s most coveted honours after being named among the nominees for the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards.

Announced in Madrid, the 2026 nominations celebrate record breakers, champions and breakthrough stars across global sport. Widely regarded as the “Athletes’ Awards”, the Laureus statuettes are voted for by the 69 legends of the Laureus World Sports Academy, with winners to be revealed at a globally broadcast ceremony at the iconic Cibeles Palace on April 20.

A Rivalry for the Ages

Tennis enjoyed another golden year in 2025, and its defining rivalry now shapes the race for the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award. Alcaraz finished the season as World No.1 after claiming the French Open and US Open titles, while Sinner lifted the Australian Open and Wimbledon trophies, alongside the ATP Tour Finals and Paris Masters.

They are joined in a stellar category by:

  • Ousmane Dembélé, who inspired Paris Saint-Germain to six titles and secured the Ballon d’Or.
  • Mondo Duplantis, undefeated in 2025 and the setter of four new world records.
  • Tadej Pogačar, who claimed his third Tour de France yellow jersey.
  • Marc Márquez, who clinched a seventh MotoGP world championship crown.

Trailblazing Women Lead the Charge

In the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year category, football and athletics dominate the conversation. Aitana Bonmatí, the first woman to win three Ballon d’Or awards, is shortlisted once again. She is joined by:

  • Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, who captured the World Championships sprint Triple Crown (100m, 200m, 4x100m).
  • Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who broke championship records in the 400m.
  • Faith Kipyegon, winner of a fourth World Championship 1500m gold.
  • Katie Ledecky, who extended her World Championships medal tally to 30.
  • Aryna Sabalenka, who defended her dominance in women’s tennis with a US Open title.

Bonmatí reflected on her nomination, highlighting how the awards provide athletes with a global platform to inspire future generations and amplify causes close to their hearts.

Teams Making History

The Laureus World Team of the Year shortlist underscores a landmark year for women’s sport and first-time champions. Among the nominees:

  • India Women’s Cricket Team, the first women’s cricket side ever nominated after securing a maiden World Cup title.
  • England Women’s Football Team, who defended their European Championship crown.
  • Paris Saint-Germain, winners of their first UEFA Champions League title.
  • Oklahoma City Thunder, NBA champions in a record-equalling season.
  • McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team, dominant constructors’ champions.
  • European Ryder Cup Team, who ended a 13-year away drought with victory in New York.

Breakthroughs, Comebacks and Action Sports Excellence

The Breakthrough of the Year category showcases emerging global icons including Formula One champion Lando Norris, darts prodigy Luke Littler, basketball MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and teenage swimming sensation Yu Zidi.

Meanwhile, the Comeback of the Year nominees celebrate resilience, from Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters triumph to Amanda Anisimova’s return to Grand Slam finals after prioritising her mental health.

In action sports, athletes such as Rayssa Leal, Chloe Kim and Kilian Jornet highlight the boundary-pushing feats redefining modern competition.

Sport for Good: Beyond the Podium

Beyond elite performance, the Laureus Awards continue to spotlight sport’s transformative power. The Laureus Sport for Good Award recognises community programmes driving measurable social impact across more than 40 countries.

This year’s shortlisted initiatives span football development in underserved communities, inclusive rugby programmes for children with ADHD, and innovative employability projects combining sport, education and wellbeing.

Madrid in the Global Spotlight

With 1,300 members of the Laureus Global Media Panel contributing to the nominations process, the final vote now rests with the Laureus Academy. As Madrid prepares to host the sporting world, anticipation is building for a ceremony that will unite champions, cultural icons and global changemakers under one roof.

For athletes and fans alike, the Laureus World Sports Awards remain the ultimate benchmark of sporting excellence—where legacy, leadership and impact converge.