Which Laureus award did Usain Bolt first win in 2009?

Usain Bolt first won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award in 2009.

The award recognised his remarkable 2008 season, particularly his performance at the Beijing Olympics. Bolt became the first man to win Olympic gold in the 100 metres, 200 metres and 4×100 metres relay at the same Games while setting world records in each event at the time.

The 2009 Laureus awards were presented during the year rather than at a single traditional ceremony. Bolt’s victory came in June in Toronto, where he was presented with the award by Michael Johnson and Edwin Moses. His fellow nominees included Michael Phelps, Rafael Nadal, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lewis Hamilton and Valentino Rossi.

Readers sometimes confuse the award year with the season being honoured. Bolt’s 2009 Berlin World Championships achievements helped him win the Laureus award in 2010, when he again took the Sportsman of the Year title. He later won it in 2013 and 2017, making four victories overall.