Laureus World Sports Awards: Madrid to host glittering ceremony as India’s world champion women cricketers compete against England, PSG and global sporting giants
The Indian women’s cricket team has earned a historic nomination at the Laureus World Sports Awards, securing a place in the coveted World Team of the Year category. The announcement was made on Tuesday, placing the reigning world champions alongside some of the biggest names in global sport.
The nomination recognises India’s extraordinary achievements over the past year, highlighted by their maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup triumph and consistent performances on the international stage. The winners will be decided by the Laureus World Sports Academy and revealed at a grand ceremony set to take place at the iconic Cibeles Palace in Madrid, Spain.
Historic World Cup Triumph Powers Nomination
India’s nomination at the Laureus World Sports Awards comes after a landmark year that redefined women’s cricket in the country.
In 2025, the team scripted history by winning their first-ever Women’s Cricket World Cup title. The campaign was anything but straightforward. After suffering three consecutive defeats in the group stage, the squad staged a remarkable comeback that captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
One of the defining moments came in the semi-final in Mumbai, where India completed the highest successful run chase in women’s One-Day International history against Australia. The dramatic victory sent a strong message about the team’s resilience and belief under pressure.
In the final, India delivered a commanding performance against South Africa, securing a 52-run win to lift the trophy for the first time. It marked their third appearance in a World Cup final — but this time, they ensured the silverware came home.
India’s World Cup 2025 Journey at a Glance
| Stage | Opponent | Result | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | Multiple Teams | 3 Initial Losses | Dramatic turnaround begins |
| Semi-Final | Australia | Historic Run Chase Win | Highest successful ODI chase in women’s history |
| Final | South Africa | Won by 52 Runs | First-ever World Cup title |
This breakthrough year played a central role in securing the team’s place among nominees at the Laureus World Sports Awards.
Strong Competition in World Team of the Year Category
The Indian women’s cricket team faces stiff competition from five other elite teams across different sports disciplines.
World Team of the Year Nominees
| Team | Sport | Major Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Women’s Cricket Team | Cricket | First Women’s World Cup Title |
| England Women’s Football Team | Football | Defended UEFA European Championship title |
| European Ryder Cup Team | Golf | First win on U.S. soil since 2012 |
| McLaren Formula 1 Team | Formula 1 | 10th Constructors’ World Championship |
| Oklahoma City Thunder | Basketball (NBA) | First NBA Championship, equalling Chicago Bulls record |
| Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) | Football | Won six trophies including UEFA Champions League |
England’s women’s football team successfully defended their European Championship crown after defeating Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout. Meanwhile, the European Ryder Cup Team made history by securing their first victory in the United States in over a decade.
McLaren celebrated its 10th Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship, reaffirming its dominance in motorsport. In basketball, Oklahoma City Thunder clinched their maiden NBA title, matching a long-standing Chicago Bulls record. French football powerhouse Paris Saint-Germain enjoyed a sensational season, claiming six major titles including the UEFA Champions League.
Against such formidable competition, India’s presence in the Laureus World Sports Awards shortlist underscores the global impact of their achievement.
India’s Growing Legacy at the Laureus World Sports Awards
This nomination marks the third major recognition for Indian cricket at the Laureus World Sports Awards.
Previously, Sachin Tendulkar received the Sporting Moment Award in 2020. Rishabh Pant was nominated in the Comeback of the Year category last year, while Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra was shortlisted for Breakthrough of the Year in 2022. Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was also recognised in 2019.
The Indian women’s cricket team now carries the baton forward, symbolising the growing prominence of Indian athletes on the global sporting stage.
Star Power Across Individual Categories
Beyond the team awards, this year’s Laureus World Sports Awards feature a strong lineup in individual categories.
In the Men’s Sportsman of the Year race, tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner headline the nominees. Football standout Ousmane Dembélé and MotoGP champion Marc Márquez are also in contention.
In the Women’s category, Barcelona footballer Aitana Bonmatí has been nominated for the third consecutive year. She is joined by athletics standout Melissa Jefferson and swimming legend Katie Ledecky.
Also read: Australia Women vs India Women: Voll’s Century and Litchfield’s Blitz Seal Series for Australia
A Defining Moment for Indian Women’s Sport
The nomination of the Indian women’s cricket team at the Laureus World Sports Awards represents more than just silverware recognition. It reflects a transformational moment for women’s sport in India — a year defined by grit, belief and history-making performances.
As Madrid prepares to host sporting royalty from around the globe, all eyes will be on whether India’s trailblazing cricketers can convert their nomination into one of the most prestigious honours in international sport.
Regardless of the final outcome, their presence alone signals a new era — one where Indian women’s cricket stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest teams.
