Sweden’s pole vault prodigy Armand Duplantis has officially ascended to new heights — not only in his sport but in global recognition. Following an electrifying 12-month run that saw him secure Olympic gold for the second time, shatter three world records, get engaged, and even release his debut music single, Duplantis has now clinched the prestigious Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award. The honor was conferred upon him at the star-studded ceremony in Madrid on April 21, marking his first win after three successive nominations.
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A Victory Amongst Titans
Duplantis edged out a formidable shortlist of sports giants: Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, French swimming phenom Leon Marchand, Slovenian cycling maestro Tadej Pogacar, and four-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen. The magnitude of his achievement is evident given the illustrious company he bested to earn the accolade.
The award was handed over by none other than Novak Djokovic — the recipient of the same title in 2024. Joining a legendary cohort, Duplantis now shares the honour with former winners such as Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Lionel Messi, and Djokovic himself.
A Historic Feat for Track and Field
In his acceptance speech, Duplantis acknowledged the momentous nature of the win: “I am incredibly honoured to have won my first Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award in the sporting capital of Madrid and to have the great Usain Bolt pay tribute to me, who I follow as the second track and field athlete to win this award.”
He continued with a nod to the icons who preceded him: “I’ll never forget receiving this beautiful Laureus from the great Novak Djokovic – I’m following in the footsteps of giants like Novak, Usain, Rafael Nadal and Lionel Messi. The list of past winners of this award is like a history of sporting greatness over the past 25 years.”
Duplantis joins Bolt as only the second athlete from track and field to receive this award, highlighting not only his unique athleticism but also his increasing influence across global sports culture.
Rewriting the Pole Vault Record Books
The 25-year-old continues to defy what’s considered possible in pole vaulting. His first world record came in February 2020, when he cleared 6.17 meters. He raised that by a centimeter days later, setting off a record-breaking spree that has barely slowed down.
In the past two years alone, Duplantis raised the bar — literally — five more times, culminating in a jaw-dropping 6.27-meter clearance in February 2024 at Clermont-Ferrand, France. That jump not only secured him another world record but added a glittering jewel to his already glistening career.
His Olympic title defense at Paris 2024 also cemented his name in history, as he became the first man to win consecutive pole vault golds since Bob Richards accomplished the feat in the 1950s.
The Ultimate Recognition
Despite being nominated in 2023 and 2024, it took until his third try for Duplantis to win the coveted award. The reason, as he eloquently put it, lies in the profound value of this accolade: “The Laureus Awards are the ultimate awards that we athletes want to win. I know because this is the [third] time I have been nominated – and that proves it’s harder to win a Laureus than an Olympic gold medal!”
He further praised the integrity of the selection process: “The Laureus Awards represent something more than sporting achievement. The fact that they are voted on by the 69 world-class athletes of the Laureus World Sports Academy elevates them to another level. These are athletes who know the dedication and commitment that lies behind sporting successes; they have set the mark that athletes like me strive for. To be recognised by them is truly something special.”
Beyond the Runway
Outside the stadium, Duplantis’ life has also seen pivotal milestones. He got engaged with Desiré Inglander, released a debut single, and continued to build his image as one of sport’s most charismatic young stars.
His multi-faceted personality — mixing elite sport with artistic expression — makes him a standout figure in a world where athletes increasingly transcend traditional boundaries.
Read More: Rafael Nadal Receives Prestigious Laureus Sporting Icon Award in Madrid
FAQs
Who won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award in 2025?
Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis won the 2025 Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award.
Why was Armand Duplantis awarded the Laureus Sportsman of the Year?
Duplantis was honored for winning his second Olympic gold, breaking three world records, and dominating the pole vault scene in 2024.
Who presented Armand Duplantis with the Laureus award?
Tennis legend Novak Djokovic presented Duplantis with the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year statuette.
How many times has Duplantis broken the pole vault world record?
Armand Duplantis has broken the pole vault world record a total of ten times since 2020.
Where was the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony held?
The 2025 Laureus Awards ceremony took place in Madrid, Spain.
