Hamilton to battle Federer and Ronaldo for prestigious award

Lewis Hamilton is up against the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to claim the coveted Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award, after being selected for the title from a section of sports media journalists and figures.

The Brit claimed his fourth world championship in 2017, seeing off challenges from Sebastian Vettel and team-mate Valtteri Bottas to retain the crown he relinquished to Nico Rosberg the previous year.

His exploits have seen him shortlisted for the award alongside tennis greats Federer and Nadal, while Ronaldo's Ballon d'Or and Champions League wins across the year sees him nominated also.

Long distance runner Mo Farah and multiple Tour de France winner Chris Froome complete the six-man shortlist.

The award is dedicated to athletes whose performances in the year have shown consistent excellence and have also had the ability to promote social change. Former F1 driver David Couthard, speaking in the wake of the announcement, feels Hamilton would be a worthy winner of the prize.

He said: "Lewis deserves his nomination by the world’s media without any doubt.

“Having been beaten by Nico Rosberg in 2016, it was important for Lewis to establish his authority as the No 1 driver in Formula One last year, and he certainly did that.

“There were moments in 2017 when you thought his driving could not get any better.

“What I particularly liked was that, early on, when things were not going his way he and the Mercedes team regrouped, his driving remained patient and mature, and he eventually dominated the year.

“Lewis has four world championships now and, to be honest, it would be very difficult for him to catch Michael Schumacher, who won seven, but if the Mercedes domination continues, he could easily win one or two more.

“Even up against the likes of Federer, Nadal and Ronaldo, he must be a very strong contender to win the Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award.”