Congratulations to Simone Biles who was named Sportswoman of the Year at the annual Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony held in Madrid, Spain. Ski racing legend Lindsey Vonn had the honor of presenting Biles with the award which celebrates individuals and teams who are nominated by 1,000+ members of sports media from more than 70 countries. Here is what Lindsey had to say about this incredible woman:
“It was an honor to present the Laureus for Sportswoman of the Year to the goat Simone Biles. Her impact goes far beyond gymnastics – she’s a true champion for women in sport and for mental health and someone who has inspired me many, many times. Her performance in Paris pushed the limits of what others believed was impossible in gymnastics. Simone is one of the greatest athletes of all time, not just the goat of gymnastics! Proud to celebrate her and so many inspiring stories from across the sporting world at this year’s Laureus Sport Awards.” -Lindsey Vonn
About Laureus World Sports Awards:
First held in 2000, the annual event honors the greatest and most inspirational sporting triumphs of the year and showcases the work of Laureus Sport for Good.
Shortlists for seven categories (Sportswoman, Sportsman, Team, Breakthrough, Comeback, Action and Sport for Good) are created by votes from more than 1,000 sports media from over 70 countries. The shortlist for World Athlete of the Year with a Disability is provided by the International Paralympic Committee.
The Laureus World Sports Academy (a unique group of sporting legends) votes for the winners in each shortlisted category and The Academy also has the ability to grant discretionary awards, such as the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award.Â
Broadcast around the world, the Awards also provides a global platform for supporting Laureus Sport for Good, by showcasing the incredible work done to transform young lives around the world. Each year, one program is recognized for its outstanding work, through the Laureus Sport for Good Award.Â
