Rafael Nadal Receives Laureus Sporting Icon Award for Excellence and Sportsmanship

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal was honored with the Laureus Sporting Icon Award on Monday evening, April 21, 2025, in Madrid, Spain. The award is a tribute to his remarkable journey in professional tennis, his sportsmanship, and his inspiring impact on athletes and fans around the world.

After the Davis Cup 2024, Rafael Nadal took retirement after playing for Spain. He is one of the best tennis players of all time. Nadal secured 92 titles and played 1,080 matches. He was ranked World No. 1 for 209 weeks. Nadal also won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award twice, in 2011 and 2021.

Nadal also gave an emotional speech. He said, “Many of you inspired me since I was a kid,” During this speech, he expressed gratitude and humility. Olympic legend Edwin Moses introduced him, while American gymnast Simone Biles presented him with the award. Moses praised Nadal not just for his achievements on the court, but also for his charitable work through the Rafa Nadal Foundation, which has helped young people around the world for over 15 years.

Nadal said, “Enjoy every moment. Professional careers are short. Work hard, stay grateful, and love the game.”

Many people from the sports world, like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Stefanos Tsitsipas, attended the event.

The Laureus Sporting Icon Award not only celebrates Nadal’s career but also recognizes the values ​​he brought to the sport: discipline, resilience and respect. Even after his time off the court, Nadal’s legacy continues to inspire generations in the world of tennis and beyond.