Aitana Bonmati makes history! Barcelona star wins Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year as she's recognised for Ballon d'Or and World Cup success

No fewer than 69 sporting legends vote to decide the winner of the accolade and it was Bonmati who came out on top this week, presented with her prize in Madrid.

Bonmati won the league and Champions League with Barcelona last year while also leading Spain to a first-ever Women's World Cup title. The 26-year-old has had plenty individual recognition as a result, with this award to join others such as the Ballon d'Or, The Best FIFA Women's Player and the World Cup Golden Ball on her shelf.

"I am honoured to receive the Laureus for Sportswoman of the Year – and I am also very happy that my international team-mates have been recognised as the Team of the Year by the Laureus World Sports Academy," Bonmati said.

"It is humbling to see the list of previous winners of this award. From Serena Williams to Simone Biles, Lindsey Vonn, Naomi Osaka and last year’s winner Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, they are all incredible athletes who have not only excelled in their chosen sports, but been incredible role models for younger generations of young women and girls.

"To be the first footballer to win this award makes it even more special and I hope to represent my sport in the same way that those great champions have done."

Bonmati was not the only football star honoured, with England & Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham named Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year. Tennis icon Novak Djokovic won the big prize on the men's side though, claiming the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year accolade for a record-equaling fifth time.

The Catalans are still on for a quadruple this season, having won the Supercopa de Espana earlier this year. They are well clear at the top of the Liga F table and in the Copa de la Reina final next month, though they travel to London this weekend needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final with Chelsea.