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Laureus World Sports Awards 2017: Celebrating Sporting Excellence

Olympic Sprinter Usain Bolt
Gymnast Simone Biles

Highlights of the 2017 Laureus World Sports Awards

The 2017 Laureus World Sports Awards took place in the glamorous setting of Monte-Carlo, Monaco, highlighting the incredible achievements of athletes from around the globe. This prestigious event, hosted annually since 2000, recognized the most outstanding sportspeople of the past year, celebrating excellence, dedication, and sportsmanship. In this edition, the legendary sprinter Usain Bolt won the award for Sportsman of the Year, continuing his legacy as one of the fastest men in history.

Usain Bolt: The Fastest Man on Earth

Usain Bolt, hailing from Jamaica, is widely regarded as the greatest sprinter of all time. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Bolt cemented his status by winning three gold medals, completing his "triple-triple" in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. His electrifying performances not only captured the hearts of sports fans worldwide but also earned him this coveted accolade at the Laureus Awards.

Simone Biles: Gymnastics Phenomenon

In the realm of women's sports, Simone Biles took home the Sportswoman of the Year award. The American gymnast showcased her unrivaled skill and artistry at the 2016 Olympics, where she claimed five gold medals and one bronze. Biles' remarkable achievements and her ability to inspire young athletes around the world made her a deserving recipient of this honor.

Team of the Year: Chicago Cubs

For the first time in 108 years, the Chicago Cubs secured their place at the top of Major League Baseball, winning the World Series in 2016. Their victory ended a long-standing championship drought, and the team’s collective effort earned them the title of Team of the Year at the Laureus Awards. This triumph not only brought joy to their dedicated fans but also marked a significant moment in the history of sports.

The Chicago Cubs' Historic Victory

The Chicago Cubs' journey to the World Series was filled with perseverance and dedication. Overcoming a three-games-to-one deficit in the World Series against the Cleveland Indians, the Cubs displayed resilience and tenacity that resonated with fans. Their victory was celebrated not just in Chicago but across the sports community, making their recognition at the Laureus Awards a fitting tribute.

Legacy of the Laureus Awards

The Laureus World Sports Awards have become a benchmark for sporting excellence, uniting athletes from various disciplines to celebrate their accomplishments. Each award represents the culmination of hard work, discipline, and passion—qualities embodied by winners like Usain Bolt, Simone Biles, and the Chicago Cubs.

Fun Fact

Usain Bolt’s Record-Setting Influence

Usain Bolt holds the world record in the 100m with an astonishing time of 9.58 seconds, which he set in 2009 at the World Championships. His incredible speed has influenced countless aspiring athletes, making him a global icon in the world of sports.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Usain Bolt and Simone Biles

For those interested in learning more about these remarkable athletes, consider reading “Usain Bolt: My Story” for insights into Bolt's life and career, along with “Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance” by Simone Biles, which chronicles her journey to success.