Aitana Bonmatí, making sports history

A night to be proud for Barça fans. In the 25th edition of the Laureus Awards, the world of sport crowned Aitana Bonmatí as World Sportswomen of the Year for 2023, rounding off a memorable year for the Catalan midfielder. After winning everything there is to win with FC Barcelona - the league, the Champions League etc - she now becomes the first footballer to win the women's award at the Laureus gala. 

When two giants of the sporting world in Usain Bolt and Lindsey Vonn presented Aitana with the award, it became apparent that the Barça Women midfielder has transcended the sport of football. The midfielder explained that is was a "unique feeling" to receive the award, adding that her individual achievements would not be possible without her club and international team mates. 

Aitana and the Barça Women team continue to keep the name of FC Barcelona in the headlines, just as the three previous winners of the Laureus award had done, commonly known as the 'Oscars' of sport. 

In 2007 Barça were recognised in the sporting spirit category for their collaboration with UNICEF. Five years later, in 2012, Barça were named 'Best international team' after winning the Champions League, league, Club World Cup and European Super Cup the previous year. 

In 2017 Laureus named the Barça U14B team as having provided the "best sporting moment of the year" after winning the World Cup Challenge against Japanese team Omiya Ardija when the blaugranes consoled their opponents after their disappointing defeat. Now, Barça fans can add Aitana Bonmatí to that list, another source of pride for culers.