Nominees

Marat Safin

Marat Safin shrugged off the challenges from the rest of the nominees in the Laureus Newcomer of the Year category to claim the award. Marat could not be there in person to accept the award but World Sports Academy member Alberto Tomba accepted it on his behalf.

Vinny Lauwers

Australian paraplegic yachtsman, Vinny Lauwers, was the deserved winner in the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability category.

Tiger Woods

The World No.1 returned to golf two months after a serious knee injury, and, although in considerable pain, won the US Open, his 14th major championship and his most remarkable victory to date.

New York Yankees

Layne Beachley

The greatest female professional surfer in the history of the sport, Layne Beachley won the World Championship a record seven times.  Known as ‘The Beast’ because of her aggressive style, she broke down barriers and set the pace for women in a previously male dominated sport.

Mario Lemieux

Mike Horn

South African Mike Horn, is acknowledged as one of the worlds greatest modern adventurer-explorers.  He has undertaken exceptional feats of endurance, determination and courage which have extended the boundaries of human achievement.

David Hall

Pieter Van Den Hoogenband

Shea Cowert