From champions to hosts: Novak Djokovic, Eileen Gu to headline Laureus Awards

For the first time in its history, the Laureus World Sports Awards will be co-hosted by two active athletes—Novak Djokovic and Eileen Gu. The ceremony is scheduled for April 20 at Madrid’s iconic Palacio de Cibeles in Madrid.

This marks a significant shift for the awards, which have traditionally been hosted by Hollywood actors rather than sports stars.

Why is this hosting decision significant?

The Laureus Awards are often described as “the Athletes’ Awards” because winners are chosen by the Laureus World Sports Academy—a panel of 69 sporting legends. Having two globally celebrated athletes host the event reinforces that identity.

Until recently, the hosting role was dominated by actors like Bill Murray, Andy Garcia, Samuel L Jackson and Benedict Cumberbatch. In 2025, Lindsey Vonn became the first athlete host, paving the way for this year’s dual-athlete format.

Who are the hosts and what makes them stand out?

Djokovic enters the event as one of the most decorated tennis players in history, with 24 Grand Slam titles and five Laureus World Sportsman of the Year awards. Gu, meanwhile, is a dominant force in freestyle skiing, a multiple Olympic and world champion, and the 2023 Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year. Their pairing reflects both legacy and next-generation excellence across disciplines.

What happens at the Laureus Awards?

The ceremony honours top performers across categories such as Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, Team of the Year, Breakthrough of the Year and Comeback of the Year. It also celebrates sport’s wider social impact through initiatives like the Sport for Good Award.

Broadcast globally, the event draws millions of viewers and generates significant engagement across social media platforms.

What did Novak Djokovic say?

Novak Djokovic said, “The Laureus World Sports Awards hold a special place in my heart. They celebrate not just excellence in sport, but the power of sport to make a difference. I have been honoured with five Laureus statuettes over the years. It is always a unique opportunity to mix with athletes from other sports - and meet the sporting heroes who make up the Laureus World Sports Academy. Last year, I was privileged to present Mondo Duplantis with his Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award - and this time I am delighted to be hosting the show with Eileen, a remarkable athlete who also understands the purpose and mission of Laureus.”

What did Eileen Gu say?

Eileen Gu said: “The Laureus World Sports Awards are incredibly special to athletes, because they celebrate our achievements in a way nothing else does - through the respect and understanding of our peers, while inspiring millions of young sports fans all over the world. They really are the Athletes' Awards and winning a Laureus in 2023 was a milestone moment in my career. I was thrilled to return last year to present the Laureus Sport for Good Award to Kick4Life and the Lifetime Achievement Award to Kelly Slater. To now be part of the show as a host, alongside Novak - someone whose journey and accomplishments I've admired for so long - is a real honour.”

(With inputs from ANI)