McIlroy and Norris Shine at Laureus World Sport Awards

Golfing sensation Rory McIlroy and Formula One champion Lando Norris were among the big winners at the esteemed Laureus World Sport Awards, which took place on Monday. McIlroy, who finally completed his career Grand Slam in 2025, was honored with the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award. The Northern Irish golfer expressed his gratitude, stating, "Receiving my second Laureus Award is a tremendous honor, and I'm thrilled that golf is being recognized on a global stage alongside other great athletes." McIlroy reflected on his journey, saying, "Winning The Masters is a moment I'll always treasure, and to have a year like that acknowledged by Laureus is truly special. Completing the career Grand Slam was an emotional experience, and it's even more meaningful because of the setbacks and near misses I faced along the way." He also congratulated the other nominees, saying, "I've drawn inspiration from their stories, and I believe in the power of sport to change the world, as Nelson Mandela once said." Meanwhile, Norris took home the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award after a thrilling battle for the Formula One drivers' championship title. The 26-year-old said, "I'm honored to be recognized by the Laureus Academy, and I'm proud to have my name alongside legendary athletes like Lewis Hamilton and Jude Bellingham." Norris credited his team for their support, saying, "Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today. This Laureus Award is a reminder of everything we achieved last season and everything still to come." Other winners included Carlos Alcaraz, who was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year after a stellar campaign, and Aryna Sabalenka, who joined an elite list of tennis players to have received the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award.