Rafa Nadal has been honoured this evening as the 'Laureus Sportsman of the Year” in Abu Dhabi after enjoying the best season in his career in 2010. The 24 year-old, who broke tons of records during the course of last season, reclaimed the number-one spot and became the first man since 1969 to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open titles in the same year, sent a special statement to hi fans straight after the announcement to thank them for always being there for him.

“Hi everyone, Thank you very much for all of the support you give me. To be given this award is a huge honour and I feel very happy to be holding this statuette.”

After receiving the Cartier-designed Laureus award, it was reported that Rafa had been a 'no-brainer' to the Awards Committee, and according to them, his three Grand Slam tournament wins in 2010 had been more than enough merit for him to claim his second Laureus Award ahead of footballers Lionel Messi, the youngest-ever Formula One World champion, Sebastian Vettel, Spain's Andres Iniesta, scorer of the goal that gave his country its first-ever World Cup, Lakers star Kobe Bryant and Philippines boxer Manny Pacquaio.

"For me this nomination is an honour. 2010 was a great year for my career, probably the best", said world No.1 at the press before the awards were announced.

The lavish award ceremony was held at the Emirates Palace Hotel, where some the most important and successful sport stars and movie stars in the world gathered to celebrate the ‘Oscars of Sports’.

Rafa was seen arriving with his parents and he was happy to know he wasn’t the only Spanish player awarded. That’s correct, Spain should be very excited to know that the Spanish National Team was also honoured in the category of ‘Best Team of the Year” for winning their first World Cup title in South Africa.

"I think that the National team did something unforgettable for our country. They deserve to be here. I hope they win", said Rafa prior to the announcement.

Here is a list of all the winners:

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: Rafael Nadal
Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year: Lindsey Vonn
Laureus World Team of the Year: Spain World Cup Team
Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year: Martin Kaymer
Laureus World Comeback of the Year: Valentino Rossi
Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability: Verena Bentele
Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year: Kelly Slater

Congratulations Rafa and Spain!

RAFA NADAL'S INTERVIEW BEFORE THE CEREMONY