Jude Bellingham wins Laureus World Sports Breakthrough of the Year Award

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Laureus World Sports Breakthrough of the Year award.

The 20-year-old midfielder has swiftly emerged as a pivotal player for the Spanish giants since his high-profile £89m transfer from Borussia Dortmund last summer.

Bellingham’s remarkable season has seen him score crucial goals, including the winner in the recent El Clasico clash against Barcelona, taking his La Liga tally to an impressive 17 goals.

Additionally, he played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s victory over Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final, which they clinched on penalties.

In other categories, tennis legend Novak Djokovic secured the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award for the fifth time, while Spain and Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati clinched the women’s equivalent.

Bonmati, who also holds the current Ballon d’Or title, was part of the triumphant Spain women’s team that secured victory in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, in addition to achieving success with Barcelona in Liga F, the Spanish Cup, and the Women’s Champions League during the 2022-23 season.

Reflecting on the award, Bonmati expressed pride in being the first footballer to win the Laureus women’s award, highlighting her team’s commitment to equality and representation both on and off the pitch.

The Laureus ceremony in Madrid also recognised outstanding achievements in other categories, including the Spain women’s football team winning the Team of the Year award, and athletes such as Simone Biles, Diede de Groot, and Arisa Trew being honoured in various categories.

This recognition not only celebrates individual and team accomplishments but also underscores the significant impact of sports in inspiring and uniting people across the globe.

For Jude Bellingham, the award is expected to inspire to do more and urge closer to winning the covetous Ballon d’Or Award which he has been tipped to clinch by many pundits and fans alike given his recent exploits.