Djokovic: Sport teaches you that it doesn't matter where you are from or what color your skin is VIDEO

Tennis world No. 1 Novak Djokovic has been crowned Laureus World Sportsman of the Year for a record-equalling fifth time.

Djokovic ended 2023 with three Grand Slam titles – the Australian Open, French Open and US Open – and only lost out in the final of Wimbledon after defeat to Carlos Alcaraz.

The 36-year-old said: "I am incredibly honoured to have won my fifth Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award. I think back to 2012, when I won it for the first time as a 24-year-old. I am very proud to be here 12 years later, reflecting on a year that brought me and my fans a lot of excitement and success".

"It was thrilling to return to Australia last January and win my 10th title. It is a tournament that is so dear to my heart and set me up for an incredible 12 months. I could not have achieved so much success without an incredible team behind me, and inspirational rivals who have always pushed me to be the best version of myself."

"The Laureus Awards are so special because they represent recognition from the 69 world-class athletes who make up the Laureus World Sports Academy. To earn the votes of my sporting heroes is what makes these awards so coveted in all of sport."

Legendary quarterback Tom Brady presented him with the award.

"It is unreal that you are handing me this award. You are my sports hero and friend. Someone I look up to not only in sports, but also in life," Djokovic began his speech and continued:

"For the last hour and a half, I've been watching the incredible athletes here in the room. Everyone who has made a big impact on the world of sports in 2023, everyone who inspires people in the world. I want to acknowledge everyone who is here. Congratulations to everyone. Laureus is a special organization and I am truly honored to have had the opportunity to receive this award in 2012. I am grateful for the fact that the people who founded this Academy recognized the impact that sport has on life, how it can change the lives of children. I am really honoured that I am part of all this, something that truly unites the world and people and that shows young people that everything is possible and that it doesn't matter where you are from or what color your skin is. Sport unites us all."

He especially addressed his colleagues from the world of tennis.

"There are also some great tennis players here - Rafa, Carlos, Martina, Garbiñe... Tennis is an individual sport, but we will agree that we owe all our successes to our families and our teams. I want to send a kiss to my wife, brothers, team, they are the most responsible for my successes," concluded Djokovic.