Novak Djokovic’s 5th Laureus Honor Leaves American Congresswoman No Choice But to Put Him on a Pedestal

Novak Djokovic has once again proved why he is one of the ‘GOATs’ not just in tennis but in the entire sporting realm. The Serbian tennis star, who previously won three Grand Slams to establish himself at the top of the major title tally, has now clinched the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year. The player’s prestigious accolade also prompted American Congresswoman Claudia Tenney to issue a bold statement about the Serb.

The American attorney and politician, Tenney, recently took to X to hail the 24-time singles Grand Slam champion for his record-extending fifth Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award. She tweeted, “@DjokerNole is likely the greatest athlete in any sport.”  The Serbian player, who also won the award in 2012, 2015, 2016, and 2019, has now matched his arch-rival and the former tennis ace Roger Federer’s record for most wins.

While Federer and Djokovic now have the most World Sportsman of the Year awards, other prominent athletes are currently behind them on an elite list. Usain Bolt holds the second position with four awards, followed by other great athletes like Rafael Nadal, Michael Schumacher, Tiger Woods, and Lionel Messi, who each have two wins.

After pulling off yet another feat in the sporting community, Djokovic also gave a heartfelt speech as he credited his ‘incredible team’ and also his ‘inspirational rivals.’

“I am very proud”- Novak Djokovic gives a heartfelt speech in a glittering ceremony

During his speech in the ceremony at the Galería De Cristal in Madrid, the current number 1 player opened up about how he was ‘incredibly honored’ after winning the coveted award for the fifth time. The ‘Djoker’ also took a trip down memory lane as he talked about winning the World Sportsman of the Year award for the first time in 2012. He said, “I am very proud to be here 12 years later, reflecting on a year that brought me and my fans a lot of excitement and success…”

Further, after accepting the award, the player acknowledged his team’s effort and thanked them for supporting him. “Send a big thank you to my team..they’ve been instrumental in my success in 2023, that was one of the best seasons I’ve ever had in my life,” Djokovic said.

He also thanked his opponents for constantly pushing him to reach new heights in the racket game. The Serb said, “I could not have achieved so much success without an incredible team behind me, and inspirational rivals who have always pushed me to be the best version of myself.” 

While his achievement is a big one, for sure, do you agree with the American politician’s bold assertion about Djokovic being the greatest athlete in the entire sporting community? Let us know in the comments section.