Double world champion Usain Bolt has been names Laureus World Sportsman of the Year for the second year running.
The Jamaican broke his own world records on his way to victory in the 100m and 200m at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin before anchoring his country in the 4x100m relay success.
The 23-year-old, who was also a triple gold medal winner at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, beat off Tour de France winner Alberto Contador, world number one tennis player Roger Federer and Lionel Messi to the award.
"For me it was even better because I had a car accident and bounced back and it shows me that with hard work and determination, anything is possible," Bolt said.
"I have got to the stage where I know what winning is and how to keep winning and I want to keep running, breaking records and winning championships."
Serena Williams was named Sportswoman of the Year but despite not being present at the ceremony in Abu Dhabi she managed to send a message of thanks to the selection committee.
"It's my third Laureus Award which is amazing and I would like to say thank you to all the Academy Members who voted for me and to the world's media who nominated me. Last year had its ups and downs, so to get this support is fantastic.
"As a tennis player you look at the amazing names of the Academy Members - like John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Boris Becker and Monica Seles - who have won so many Grand Slams and they know what it takes to do that. There is nothing better in sport than being acknowledged by the people that you looked up to when you were a young player."
Breakthrough of the Year went to Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button with the British driver beating US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro to the award.
"Wow, I think somebody forgot to tell Laureus I'm 30-years-old. Breakthrough Sportsman!" Button explained.
"In fact, 2009 was a very special year of my life. When I started the season I didn't think I'd actually be racing in Formula One. So to clinch the title with Brawn GP in our first year was a very emotional experience for me, and the team deserve some of the credit for this trophy. I would also like to thank the Laureus Academy for putting me forward for this award."
It was a good night for Button's former team as Brawn GP claimed the World Team of the Year award, while Kim Clijsters claimed Comeback of the Year, beating Lance Armstrong, after returning from a two-year absence to win the US Open title.