Smashed it! Tennis star Emma Raducanu wins BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2021

Virgin Radio

20 Dec 2021, 09:36

After becoming the first British woman to win a Grand Slam singles title in over 40 years, Emma Raducanu can now add another trophy to her stacked shelf.

The 19-year-old was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2021 following a brilliant breakout year which she completed - all while sitting her exams. 

Emma was taking her A-Levels just two short months before she took to the court at Wimbledon, where she reached the fourth round and quickly became a fan favourite. 

Not resting on her laurels, she then went on to win the US Open, marking the first Grand Slam win for a British woman since Virgina Wade in 1977.

Speaking about her big win on the night, Emma said: “Thank you, it’s such an honour just to be amongst these nominees. Congrats to you and all your achievements.

“I’m really happy with this, I’ve watched Sports Personality of the Year growing up and it’s an honour to be amongst those past winners.

“I’m happy for British tennis as well, and that we’ve managed to get this award - again!”

Elsewhere, after winning gold and bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, Tom Daly came second in the Sports Personality of the Year vote, while third was swimmer and Strictly Come Dancing alum Adam Peaty. 

Other nominees for the prestigious award included footballer Raheem Sterling, boxer Tyson Fury and paralympic athlete Dame Sarah Storey.

It’s been a big year for young talent in sport too, as Sky Brown was crowned BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year following her stellar performance at the Olympics.

She became Team GB’s youngest medalist at just 13 years old after taking bronze in skateboarding.

After picking up her prize, on a skateboard obviously, Sky said: “I want to make Britain proud and I want to inspire the world, especially little girls. If you believe in yourself, you can do anything.”