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Nadal cherishes equalling Roger Slam record after winning Laureus Sportsman of Year Award

YB WEB DESK. Dated: 5/8/2021 12:12:43 PM

New Delhi, May 7 Tennis great Rafael Nadal was named the 2021 Laureus Sportsman of the Year after a landmark year in which the Spaniard equalled Roger Federer's Grand Slam record for the most majors won by a male player. With the French Open victory in 2020, Nadal took his tally to 20 Grand Slam titles. Meanwhile, World No. 2 Naomi Osaka won the top women's honour at the Laureus Awards after winning her 2nd US Open title last year during which she was vocal against racism. Nadal picked up his fourth Laureus honour, having previously scooped the Breakthrough, Comeback and men's individual awards. "The rest of the sportsmen probably deserve the trophy the same as me, but this was the year for me and I can't be happier," Nadal said. "Winning the French Open and equalling the 20th Grand Slam of Roger Federer has been an unforgettable moment. It means a lot to equal my great rival, but at the same time, my great friend. It's something very special after all the history we have had together on and off court." Laureus acknowledged Naomi Osaka's contribution, lauding the Japanese player's "powerful statement" at the US Open to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Notably, Osaka wore different face masks at the Grand Slam last year, helping recognise the names of African Americans who were killed in the recent past. "I think it is important to use my voice," Osaka. "Because for me I feel like I often hold back a lot and worry about what people think of me, but you know if you have a platform it is very important you use it." Tennis dominated the digital awards ceremony in Seville as American great Billie.