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Djokovic handed top honour

Image: Novak Djokovic: Started the new year in fine style by retaining his title Down Under

Serbian Novak Djokovic has been named Laureus world sportsman of the year at a glittering awards ceremony in London.

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Serbian rewarded after winning three grand slam titles in 2011

Novak Djokovic has continued to pick up trophies after being named Laureus world sportsman of the year at a glittering ceremony in London. The Serbian enjoyed a quite-stunning 2011 season, clinching the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open grand slam titles. The reigning world number one has also started the new year in fine style, retaining his title Down Under with a thrilling victory over Rafael Nadal. Djokovic collected the award in the capital at an event which was also attended by Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, former Ajax and Barcelona star Johan Cruyff, and five-time Olympic champion Sir Steve Redgrave.

Best

Kenyan long-distance runner Vivian Cheruiyot took home the sportswoman of the year gong, while Barcelona were named the best team. Northern Irish golfer Darren Clarke was selected for the comeback of the year for winning the Open Championship at the age of 42, and compatriot Rory McIlroy won the breakthrough of the year gong after lifting the US Open. Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton was also honoured, picking up the lifetime achievement award. 'Blade Runner' athlete Oscar Pistorius won the Laureus disability award after becoming the first amputee to win a track medal in a non-disabled World Championships - a silver in the 4x400metre relay.