Six Paralympians nominated for 2025 Laureus Sport Awards
Six of the world’s most outstanding Para athletes have been nominated for the prestigious 2025 Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award, an accolade that celebrates excellence, resilience, and remarkable achievements in Para sports.
The nominees for this year's award include Swiss wheelchair racer Catherine Debrunner, renowned for her dominance on the track; Spanish Para swimmer Teresa Perales, one of the most decorated Paralympian’s in history; Chinese Para swimmer Yuyan Jiang, a rising star in the sport; Japanese wheelchair tennis player Tokito Oda, who continues to break barriers in the sport; USA Para archer Matt Stutzman, famously known as the ‘Armless Archer’ for his extraordinary skills and adaptability; and Chinese Para badminton player Qu Zimo, a formidable competitor in the fast-paced world of Para badminton.
The Laureus World Sports Academy officially revealed the nominees on Monday, 3 March 2025. This annual award recognizes Para athletes who have delivered exceptional performances and demonstrated unparalleled dedication to their sport, particularly during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where these competitors showcased their incredible talent on the global stage.
The eagerly awaited winner of the 2025 Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award will be announced during a grand ceremony on 21 April 2025. This year’s event holds special significance as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Laureus World Sports Awards, a milestone moment in celebrating the power of sport to inspire and unite people worldwide.