Laureus Awards: Roger Federer’s Best Friend Siya Kolisi’s Springboks Snubbed; Novak Djokovic Hunts Down Swiss Rival’s Top Record

Novak Djokovic adds another Laureus Sportsman of the Year award to his collection, capping off a phenomenal 2023. This win ties him with his former rival, Roger Federer. Djokovic becomes the only person along with the Swiss legend to grab the award five times making way for more in the future. On the other hand, in another disappointment to team Federer, one of his best friends had missed out on another Laureus award.

South Africa rugby team, Springboks’ captain Siya Kolisi, who is a close friend of Roger Federer missed out on the Laureus Comeback of the Year award despite a World Cup Triumph. However, the 36-year-old’s stunning 2023 season with 3 Grand Slams and four other titles crossed through to the other side of the river despite stiff competition.

Kolisi had a partial ACL tear but still returned within 119 days to lead them to a consecutive World Cup Triumph. But it was gymnast Simone Biles who bagged the award. Federer and the rugby star have been friends since 2019 and the tennis star’s love for the Springboks is well known. Federer was also seen cheering for South Africa during the 2023 RWC final and also celebrated with Kolisi after his victory. However, an athlete can be proud just for making the list of Laureus, one of the most prestigious awards.

2023 heroics worthy of a Laureus award for Novak Djokovic

It was an emotional moment for one of the greatest athletes of recent times. After facing a travel ban in 2022, Novak Djokovic was deprived of 2 major Grand Slams, leaving the player with a lone Wimbledon victory. And the following year’s achievements brought Novak back to Laureus. “It was thrilling to return to Australia last January and win my 10th title. It is a tournament that is so dear to my heart and set me up for an incredible 12 months,” stated the Serbinator after receiving the award.

2023 turned out to be more than a special year as records started to tumble for the maestro. Djoker overtook Spanish icon Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles to pocket an additional two to make it 24. Additionally, Novak also took over Roger as the highest ATP Finals winner winning his 7th title in Turin last November making him one of the strongest contenders for this year’s award.

In summary, Novak Djokovic has proved his mettle once again. Despite a challenging 2022, the player refused to give up and made his way up to the top. And with another record to his name, the Serbian will go down as one of the greatest athletes of all time.