• Laureus World Sports Awards

Djokovic named World Sportsman of the Year

Novak Djokovic won three grand slams in 2011 © PA Photos

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Novak Djokovic was named the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year on Monday following a phenomenal 12 months of tennis on the ATP Tour.

Djokovic was rewarded at a star-studded London ceremony, following a year in which he won three grand slam titles. The Serb triumph at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open, and has since defended his Australian crown in 2012.

Appearing in front of the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Steven Redgrave, the world No. 1 collected his award to mass approval from the crowd in attendance. Djokovic's latest achievement comes just over a week after he edged the longest final in grand slam history against Rafael Nadal.

"I have to say it's an extreme pleasure being part of such a great event," Djokovic said. "It's a spectacular feeling. It's difficult to describe how good it feels in words for me, for my family.

"What stands out most for me in these two days I spent in London is getting to know the legends of sport and practically absorbing every word they said."

Elsewhere, Darren Clarke picked up the Comeback of the Year gong for his efforts at the Open Championship. Compatriot Rory McIlroy walked away with the Breakthrough of the Year following his triumph at the US Open.

Barcelona were an obvious pick for the Team of the Year after they won the Champions League and Spanish title, while Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award.

Elsewhere, Oscar Pistorius won the Laureus Disability award, while Sportswoman of the Year went to Kenya's long-distance runner Vivian Cheruiyot.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.