Novak Djokovic crowned European Sportsperson of the Year for the fifth time defeating Iga Swiatek to honour
ATPThursday, 28 December 2023 at 00:00
Novak
Djokovic secured the title of the 2023 European Sportsperson of the Year,
surpassing female world No. 1 Iga Swiatek, who received the distinction in
2022. The Serbian claimed the award from the Polish Press Agency for the fifth
time in his career: 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2021.
'Nole' was
undoubtedly the most dominant tennis player of the year, winning three out of
four Grand Slam titles (reaching the Wimbledon final but falling to Carlos
Alcaraz). He ultimately secured the record for the most Grand Slam victories
with 24 (two more than Rafael Nadal). At 36 years old, he finished the year as
world No. 1 (having surpassed 400 weeks at the top in his career) and claimed
his seventh ATP Finals trophy, adding to his impressive list of records.
Djokovic's 5th Sportsperson of the Year award
Djokovic's
stellar performance in 2023 allowed him to dethrone Swiatek, who, in 2022, won
two Grand Slam titles, achieved a 37-match-winning streak (the longest in the
21st century), and held the world No. 1 ranking continuously since March,
following Ashleigh Barty's retirement.
“Novak
Djokovic has been elected European Sportsperson of the Year for the 5th time
out of the last 13 editions, award presented by the Polish Press Agency. He
succeeds Iga Swiatek in the winners' list”
Previous Winners of the Award
Djokovic
received the award with the votes from 27 international news agencies, joining
athletes like footballers Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski, as well as
Formula 1 legends Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, who have been previous
recipients.
24-times
Grand Slam champion is the only male tennis player to have won this prestigious
award. Notably, he was the first athlete to secure the prize in 2011 and now,
12 years later, he once again claims this distinguished honor. In the past,
Rafael Nadal twice finished in second place (2013, 2019), along with Andy
Murray (2016). Roger Federer, on the other hand, secured a spot on the podium
once, finishing third in 2017.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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