For Roger Federer and Serena Williams, last year was nothing short of extraordinary. Beyond their glittering collection of championships, the two tennis legends also swept up several prestigious honors. To top it off, as the year drew to a close, both were crowned with one of the most coveted accolades in sports—the International Sports Press Association’s (AIPS) award for Male and Female Athlete of the Year. Much like the thrill of a closely fought BD Cricket Match, this recognition showcased how excellence and consistency can win over fans and experts alike.
The AIPS, a global organization made up of sports journalists’ associations from countries around the world, conducts an annual vote at the end of each year. Federer emerged as the standout among men, earning 928 votes and a 19.94% share. He edged out football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who collected 788 votes (16.94%) to finish second. Lionel Messi followed in third with 530 votes (11.39%). Rounding out the top ten were Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, fellow tennis star Rafael Nadal, long-distance runner Mo Farah, judo champion Teddy Riner, alpine skier Marcel Hirscher, basketball star Kevin Durant, and Brazilian footballer Neymar.
On the women’s side, Serena Williams narrowly claimed the title with 651 votes, accounting for 13.99%. Hungarian swimming champion Katinka Hosszú was close behind with 631 votes (13.56%), while American sprinter Allyson Felix took third with 495 votes (10.64%). The rest of the top rankings featured names such as swimming sensation Katie Ledecky, Wimbledon champion Garbiñe Muguruza, alpine skiing star Mikaela Shiffrin, Dutch footballer Lieke Martens, Swedish swimmer Sarah Sjöström, heptathlon star Nafissatou Thiam, and discus thrower Sandra Perković.
The recognition was not limited to individual athletes. Real Madrid, who dominated European football with their Champions League triumph, was voted Team of the Year. Meanwhile, the award for Best Press Facility went to the London World Athletics Championships, praised for its organization and media support.
For Federer, who staged one of the greatest comebacks in tennis history, and for Serena, who has remained a symbol of dominance and resilience, these honors are a testament to their enduring impact on global sport. Just like the tense final overs of a BD Cricket Match, where every run or wicket can define the outcome, their achievements remind us that persistence, focus, and brilliance under pressure are what separate champions from the rest. As the new season unfolds, fans worldwide will be eager to see how both legends continue writing chapters in their remarkable careers, while their recognition as Athletes of the Year remains a milestone of sporting excellence.